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Unit 9 01 From the Middle Ages to the Modern Age - Coggle Diagram
Unit 9 01 From the Middle Ages to the Modern Age
Society and the feudal economy
The basic structure of society was the same as in the Middle Ages. Social groups were divided according to privileges.
The three estates of the realm
At the very top of the social system was the king.
The clergy had the social and spiritual function of looking after the souls of people.
Below these two estates, there was the third estate of the common people, mostly peasants, but also craftsmen, traders, doctors, jurists, etc.
The nobles did not work, as they considered manual labour beneath them.
Collective privileges:cities
Cities enjoyed the main type of collective privileges. The city council was in charge of exercising these privileges. In theory, they were for all the city's inhabitants, but in practice, they were restricted to its richest members: landowners, rich traders and craftspeople.
Monarchies of the 16th century
Some kingdoms joined together under the same ruler to create composite monarchies. There were other independent political entities that acted like kingdoms, although they were not.
Basic traits of a new era
Religious changes
It was a time of intolerance with great persecution of Jews and Muslims.
Social changes
The third estate became more diverse and complex, as a result of urban growth. The bourgeoisie acquired influence and wealth, and salaried work increased.
Cultural changes
New artistic styles appeared, including Renaissance art and architecture.There were also new cultural movements, such as Humanism
Political changes
The system of privileges and institutions, such as the estate courts and parliaments, did not disappear, but monarchies gained power.
Economic changes
Craft, trade and financial activities experienced a huge boom. However, agriculture and livestock farming continued to be the main economic activities.
The factors behind geographical discovery
Political and religious factors
There was religious rivalry with Islam, which was reinforced by the Ottomans.
Sociological factors
The spirit of the Renaissance inspired people to discover and explore.
Demographic factors
After the demographic stagnation of the Late Middle Ages, the population went through a period of growth.
Scientific and technical factors
Advances were made in navigation with new ships, such as carracks and caravels.
Economic factors
Europeans needed gold and silver to produce coins. They also depended on products from the East, such as silk and spices.