The Renaissance
A summary of the features and transformations of the Renaissance in 100 words (or so):
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Artists, Scientists and Writers The debates and discoveries of a vibrant intellectual community break away from the revered Greek traditions and founded modern culture.
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Distribution More people are living in towns and cities.
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Economics
a) Rise of the power and wealth of merchants: merchant capitalism expands and becomes the dominant form of economic organisation.
b) Growth of production in towns: strengthening the urban guild system.
c) Growth of production in the country: 'manufacture' in rural zones of domestic industry starts and grows.
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Exploration European colonies established across the world.
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Politics A centralised monarchy replaces feudalism.
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Population Recovers after the Black Death (1348-53) and increases.
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Religion
a) The beginning and rise of Protestantism
b) Protestant and Catholic reformations re-shaped the organisation of clergy (and laity)
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