Late Middle Ages

Definition

The Late Middle Ages refers to the period in European history from approximately the 14th century to the 16th century, marked by significant social, economic, and cultural transformations. This era saw the decline of feudalism, the rise of towns and a burgeoning merchant class, and the beginning of early modernity, all of which set the stage for the rise of global markets and economic systems like mercantilism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Late Middle Ages were marked by devastating events such as the Black Death, which drastically reduced Europe's population and altered labor dynamics.
2. The rise of towns during this period led to increased trade and commerce, breaking down feudal structures and allowing a new merchant class to emerge.
3. This era saw advancements in technology and agriculture, including improved plowing techniques and crop rotation, leading to better food production.
4. The Late Middle Ages also witnessed significant religious upheaval, including the Great Schism and challenges to papal authority, which laid groundwork for the Protestant Reformation.
5. The transition towards mercantilism began during this time, as states sought to control trade routes and accumulate wealth through colonization and trade monopolies.

Review Questions

• How did the social structure shift during the Late Middle Ages, particularly in relation to feudalism?
  • During the Late Middle Ages, the rigid social structure of feudalism began to weaken significantly. The growth of towns and trade created opportunities for merchants and artisans to rise in social status. This shift meant that wealth was increasingly based on commerce rather than land ownership, leading to a decline in feudal obligations and allowing more mobility within society. As a result, many peasants moved to urban areas for better opportunities, further diminishing feudal power.
• What were some key factors that contributed to the rise of mercantilism during the Late Middle Ages?
  • Several key factors contributed to the rise of mercantilism during the Late Middle Ages. The increase in trade activities fueled by growing towns created a demand for a structured economic policy. As European nations sought to enhance their power and wealth through colonial expansion and resource acquisition, they embraced mercantilist practices aimed at accumulating gold and silver. Additionally, technological advancements improved navigation and shipping capabilities, facilitating broader trade networks that were essential for mercantilist strategies.
• Evaluate the impact of the Late Middle Ages on shaping modern European economies and societies.
  • The Late Middle Ages had a profound impact on shaping modern European economies and societies by laying the groundwork for capitalism and globalization. The decline of feudalism shifted economic power towards a merchant class that valued trade over land ownership. This transformation led to increased urbanization and innovation in business practices. Furthermore, as European states began exploring new markets and establishing colonies under mercantilist policies, this initiated patterns of trade that would influence global economic relations well into modern times.

Related terms

Feudalism: A social and economic system in medieval Europe where land was owned by lords who granted it to vassals in exchange for military service and loyalty.

Renaissance: A cultural movement that began in Italy in the late 14th century, characterized by a revival of interest in classical art, literature, and learning, which influenced economic practices.

Mercantilism: An economic theory prevalent from the 16th to the 18th centuries that emphasized the role of the state in managing the economy to increase national wealth through trade and colonization.