WORLD HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -Luxury goods bought in the Levant, such as spices, dyes, and silks, were imported to Italy and then resold throughout Europe. The Italian trade routes that covered the Mediterranean and beyond were also major conduits of culture and knowledge.

Detailed explanation-2: -Peppercorns, nutmeg, mace, and cinnamon all came from lands to the east. Also from the East came precious gems and fine silk, a fabric especially sought after for women’s clothing. These trading voyages were often paid for by investors.

Detailed explanation-3: -For example, the major banks of Florence created branches in other cities and regions and led to Florence’s economic and political influence spreading throughout the Italian peninsula. As such, Florence prospered as a center of trade and commerce.

Detailed explanation-4: -At the beginning of the Renaissance, the Mediterranean Sea was the main arena of international trade. Venice dominated commerce in the region because of its powerful merchant fleet and strategic location. The Venetians controlled the flow of luxury goods and spices between Asia and Europe.

Detailed explanation-5: -Trade became very important during the Renaissance because Italy had few natural resources. During this time period there was a great demand for products that were not produced in Italy or were produced in insufficient quantities.