What characteristics of Italian economic and political development in the late Middle Ages helped lead to the Italian Renaissance? (1 point)

Answer 1

One characteristic of Italian economic and political development in the late Middle Ages that helped lead to the Italian Renaissance was the growth of prosperous city-states. These city-states, such as Florence, Venice, and Genoa, had thriving economies, with trade networks and banking systems that attracted wealthy merchants and bankers from across Europe. This economic prosperity led to the accumulation of wealth and resources, which in turn funded the patronage of the arts and sciences during the Renaissance.

Additionally, the political fragmentation of Italy played a role in the development of the Renaissance. Unlike other European countries, Italy was not unified but rather divided into multiple independent city-states, each with its own government and ruling class. This fragmentation created a competitive environment among the city-states, which stimulated artistic and intellectual innovation as rulers and elites sought to showcase their wealth and power through the patronage of artists and scholars.

These economic and political characteristics promoted a favorable environment for the revival of learning, arts, and culture, which became the hallmark of the Italian Renaissance.