The Medieval 1%: The Rise of the Merchant Class with Elanor Janega

While 80% of Europe struggled as peasants, a new elite was rising in the city. From the opulent halls of the Grocers and Mercers, these merchant families created a monopoly on everything from exotic spices to luxury silks. They weren't just businessmen; they were the "Medieval 1%," acting as a halfway point between a modern trade union and a ruthless corporate monopoly. You can now become a History Hit member right here on YouTube! Join for access to a new exclusive documentary every week, and access to over 160+ of our documentaries presented by world renowned historians like Dan Snow, Eleanor Janega, Tristan Hughes, Mary Beard, Matt Lewis and more. Get an exclusive release every week by signing up here: https://bit.ly/4pyExyn Best History Documentaries is part of The Little Dot Studios Network. Please forward any queries to [email protected]. #HistoryDocumentary #HistoryHit #x