Wool

Definition

Wool is a textile fiber obtained from the fleece of sheep and other animals, prized for its warmth, durability, and versatility in clothing and textiles. In the context of manorialism and the agricultural economy, wool became a vital commodity, driving trade, influencing social structures, and shaping the economic landscape of medieval Europe.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wool production became a significant economic activity during the Middle Ages, leading to the rise of wool trade routes across Europe.
2. The quality of wool varied depending on the breed of sheep and the region where they were raised, with certain areas becoming known for their superior wool products.
3. As demand for wool grew, it contributed to the expansion of agricultural practices, leading to improvements in farming techniques and land management.
4. Wool was not only important for clothing but also used in other textiles such as blankets, carpets, and upholstery, making it a versatile resource.
5. The wealth generated from wool trade helped fuel the rise of towns and cities, as merchants and craftspersons sought to capitalize on this booming industry.

Review Questions

• How did wool production influence the social and economic structures of medieval European society?
  • Wool production significantly influenced medieval European society by driving economic growth and altering social structures. As wool became a valuable commodity, it stimulated trade and created wealth for landowners who invested in sheep farming. This led to the emergence of new social classes, such as wealthy merchants who benefited from the wool trade, while traditional feudal relationships evolved as lords capitalized on agricultural production.
• Analyze the impact of wool trade on manorialism and agricultural practices during the Middle Ages.
  • The wool trade had a profound impact on manorialism and agricultural practices by incentivizing landowners to improve their farming methods. To maximize profits from wool production, lords invested in better breeding practices and pasture management. This shift not only altered land use but also encouraged peasants to adopt more efficient farming techniques in order to meet the rising demand for wool, ultimately transforming agricultural economies across Europe.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the wool industry on urbanization and economic development in medieval Europe.
  • The long-term effects of the wool industry on urbanization and economic development were significant as it catalyzed the growth of towns and cities. The influx of wealth from wool trade attracted artisans, merchants, and laborers to urban centers seeking opportunities in textile production and commerce. This migration contributed to an increasingly interconnected economy, ultimately laying the groundwork for the rise of capitalism and altering social dynamics as urban life became more prominent in European society.

Related terms

Manorialism:

A system of land management in medieval Europe where a lord owned large estates and peasants worked the land in exchange for protection and a place to live.

Fleece: The coat of wool covering a sheep, which is sheared and processed to produce woolen textiles.

Guilds: Associations of artisans and merchants in medieval towns that regulated trade, set standards for quality, and provided mutual support.