1. What Was the Renaissance?
The Renaissance was the “rebirth” in interest in classical (Greek and Roman) culture
It began in Italy in the mid 1300s and spread to other parts of Europe in the 1400 and 1500s.
Merchants and crusaders learned about classical art and writings from the Byzantines and the Muslims

2. The Growth of Trade and Commerce
Centrally located towns became bustling centers of trade, attracting merchants, craftspeople, and customers. Towns also began to provide services for traveling merchants.
A money-based economy replaced a barter-based economy

3. The Growth of Trade and Commerce (continued)
In the 13th century, the Mongol conquests in Asia made it safe for traders to travel the Silk Road to China.
The tales of the Italian traveler Marco Polo sparked an even greater interest in the East.

4. The Growth of Trade and Commerce (continued)
Merchants, craftspeople, and bankers became more important and powerful. They became patrons of the arts and used their wealth to commission art and new buildings and to found universities.

5. The Growth of Trade and Commerce (continued)
The new ideas and goods brought from the East renewed people’s interest in ancient Greece and Rome. The new wealth they generated helped to fund a growth in art and learning.

6. The Influence of Italian City-States
City-states were powerful cities that ruled the surrounding towns and countryside. They were independent and were often republics governed by elected councils. Sometimes they were ruled by rich merchants, guilds, or powerful families.

7. The Influence of Italian City-States (continued)
The Italian city-states became so powerful because their central Mediterranean location lead to them to become booming centers of trade.