Urban and commercial expansion

In the 11th century, technical innovations in agriculture led to the accumulation of food surpluses. These surpluses were sold in towns called bourgs. This, and other factors discussed in this social reality, led to the creation of major trade networks in Europe and the beginning of the Great Trade. The urban and commercial boom gave rise to a new social class, the bourgeoisie, and the rise of artisans. Thus began the expansion of Western European societies around the world.