1. Emergence of Modern Economy
Learning Target 7.41
I can trace the emergence of a modern economy, including the growth of banking, technological and agricultural improvements, commerce, towns, and a merchant class.

2. Emergence of the Modern Economy
Both the Crusades and the Black Death helped bring an end to feudalism.
During the Crusades, large numbers of knights and nobles went off to fight in the wars, weakening the feudal pyramid.
Peasants also fought during the Crusades.
After the Crusades, many returned to Europe with new products and ideas.

3. So many people died during the Black Death that the feudal pyramid began to break down.
After the Black Death, peasants were able to demand more money for their work because there was a shortage of laborers.
As peasants began to make money, many moved to towns looking for a better life.