International Trade in the Middle Ages

This book offers a detailed examination of the evolution of trade during the Middle Ages, highlighting key commodities and trade routes. International Trade in the Middle Ages explores how commerce influenced international relations.

In International Trade in the Middle Ages, Hilary Green takes readers on an enlightening exploration of the intricate web of trade that shaped the medieval world. Beginning with the production of wool in the northern English abbeys, she traces its journey to Flanders, where it was transformed into textiles amidst the bustling international marketplace of Bruges. This journey highlights the interconnectedness of trade routes and the evolution of commerce, as wool was exchanged for Bordeaux wine, which eventually made its way back to London, creating a cyclical trade network.

The narrative continues by delving into the vibrant trade fairs of the Champagne region in France, where a diverse array of goods including wool, leather, salt, and iron were exchanged. Green unveils the development of banking practices that arose from these bustling markets, illustrating how the merchants of Genoa pioneered various trade routes, navigating both land and water to facilitate commerce. Through these routes, luxury items such as silks and spices were transported from distant lands, enriching the European markets.

Moreover, the author sheds light on the intrigue and mystery surrounding medieval trade, including the smuggling of silkworms into Constantinople and the sourcing of precious gems and exotic spices from the East. As international trade flourished, it not only transformed economies but also influenced diplomatic relations, highlighting the significance of trade in shaping the medieval landscape.