1) Population growth and a warming climate in Europe between 800-1200 CE led to expanded farming lands and increased food production. 2) This supported growth in towns and trade, with fairs emerging as major marketplaces and guilds regulating various occupations. 3) A financial revolution occurred as merchants needed loans to fund production, initially obtaining them from Jewish lenders until the Church later relaxed usury laws. 4) Increased trade and financial activity helped towns grow substantially, providing new economic opportunities that attracted people away from manors.

1. Trade, Towns, and Financial Revolution Ch 14.2