Ch 11

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Ch 11

• The Renaissance Begins

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Renaissance in Italy
Between 1350-1650 Europe changed.
As they Black Death ended people looked to the
future.
The REBIRTH of Culture was the Renaissance
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Rebirth of Classics
Renewed interest in the Greek and Roman writings
Adopted Greek and Roman ideas, wanted the world
to Be better.
Religion was still important, but people were
more secular Interested in Worldly Ideas.
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Renaissance is Born
Renaissance began in Italy.
Ancient ruins inspired artistic efforts.
Wealthy citizens paid, painters, sculptors
Architects
Powerful Italian states became more urban.
City life became part of Italian Society.
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States of Italy
Italy was a collection of Independent City-States
States / Church did not want a strong King or
Emperor
Florence, Venice, Genoa, Milan and Rome Main
States
States were wealthy, built fleets and hired
mercenaries.
Wealthy Bankers and Merchants loaned the King
money.
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Riches from Trade
Italy wealthy from trade, long coastlines,
Medit. Sea.
From Constantinople Italians brought silk and
spices To sell on Western Europe.
From the West Italians brought wool, wine and
glass To sell to the East
The Crusades and the Mongol conquests
opened Trade routes to Italy.
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Marco Polo
1270s Marco Polo, father and uncle traveled to
meet Kublai Khan
Kublai sent Marco all over China
Returned to Europe and wrote about his travels
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Florence
Wealth and location made Florence a major city
Surrounded by walls and towers, famous dome.
Traded wool, banking center, put value on
currency.
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Venice
Venice was built on a series of islands.
Buildings were built on poles and canals were dug.
Venice became a trade link between Europe and Asia
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New Ruling Class
Wealthy merchants and bankers made up new
leadership
Italian noble families moved to cities, Urban
Nobles.
Merchants adopted noble customs. New upper class.
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Who Ruled the City-States?
Some were republics. Power came from
citizens. (Merchants and Artisans)
Some city-states relied on a single ruler.
Venice elected a Duke / Doge to run the city.
In Florence, the Medici family governed.
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Keeping the Peace
Politics were complex in Italy. There were
revolts with the poor and wealthy leaders
trying to take power.
Developed Diplomacy to work with other City-States
Niccolo Machivelli Diplomat. Wrote The
Prince. Stated rulers should do whatever
necessary to keep Power and protect their city.