The document summarizes several key developments in medieval Europe that led to increased food production, trade, and the growth of towns: 1) A period of global warming from 800-1300 led to longer growing seasons and the ability to farm in more northern areas, increasing food production. 2) The development of the horse collar harness allowed horses to be effectively used for farming, further increasing food yields. 3) The three-field crop rotation system alternated fields between winter crops, spring crops, and fallow periods, allowing more continuous food production from the same lands. 4) Guilds standardized trades and quality, while their apprenticeship system spread knowledge and skills, supporting increased production and trade.

1. Trade ,Towns, and Financial Revolution

6. This is the original harness derived from the Roman design. Because of the placement of the top strap and that the pull lines were at the top, the harness had the unfortunate habit of choking the horse if it pulled too hard. The next-gen harness (the breast harness) was better but the breast strap could still ride up and choke the horse.

7. So along comes the horse collar. It fits around the horse’s head with the pull lines at the sides. This puts the pulling pressure on the shoulders and breast of the horse, and off its neck. The horse can now be used as a good farm implement.

18. New York City Paris Vs.

19. London