WORLD HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -During the European medieval period, a rapid expansion in trade and commerce led to the rise of a wealthy and powerful merchant class. The European age of discovery opened up new trading routes and gave European consumers access to a much broader range of goods.

Detailed explanation-2: -Trade allowed for the rise of a merchant elite that did not have to rely on land ownership to accumulate wealth. This group also had disposable income to spend on art or to sponsor institutions of higher learning.

Detailed explanation-3: -Mercantilism was a form of economic nationalism that sought to increase the prosperity and power of a nation through restrictive trade practices.

Detailed explanation-4: -As trade routes began to open in the 13th and 14th century, merchants were able to travel further to obtain more exotic wares or goods and bring them back for sale or trade. Many travel routes were not easy terrain, and merchants became a more valuable part of the societal structure.