Origins of Towns/cities

Technological Advancements

Innovations like the iron plow that improved efficiency

Guilds

Organizations setting work standards, wages, and trade regulations

Pros of Guilds

Enhanced economic opportunities, education, and social mobility

Cons of Guilds

Resulted in unclean conditions, loss of self

Effects on Feudalism

Shifted power dynamics, leading to conflicts between lords and merchants

Social Mobility

Ability for serfs to improve legal status and become free

Merchants' Rights

Gained through force against lords, challenging control through taxes and fees