2. European Trading Networks
Why is the Commercial Revolution based in cities and towns?

3. Significance of Crusades: Economic Expansion
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Plunder and looting of Holy Land
Building of fleets to carry Crusaders and then trade
Enrichment of merchant class – through carrying Crusaders and trade rights with Islamic World
Control of Mediterranean Sea trade
Development of a money economy for trade – undermines manorialism, serfdom, feudalism

4. Commercial Revolution in Europe
From Feudalism: To Capitalism:
Commodities
Money
Money
Commodities

5. What’s different about city life
What’s different about city life? How do cities threaten feudalism and manorial life?
Based on trade and commerce – money economy
New social classes and organization – merchants, artisans; serfs gain freedom
Guilds – economic and social organizations of equals
Alliances with kings – a right to private liberties; city charters allow cities right to tax, make law
More culture and intellectual development – literacy, universities; a challenge to the Church’s control of intellectual life