AP European History Flashcards: The Commercial Revolution
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 14 cards to help you master important concepts.
What new social class emerged as a result of the growth of commerce?
The growth of commerce produced a new economic elite, distinct from the traditional land-holding aristocracy.
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What new social class emerged as a result of the growth of commerce?
The growth of commerce produced a new economic elite, distinct from the traditional land-holding aristocracy.
What major demographic milestone was reached in Europe during the 16th century?
The population recovered to its level before the Great Plague of the 14th century.
Which group in western Europe primarily benefited from the commercialization of agriculture?
Large landowners were the primary beneficiaries of agricultural changes like enclosure.
How did migration to cities affect urban governance?
Migrants challenged the ability of established merchant elites and craft guilds to effectively govern the growing cities.
How did the price revolution contribute to the expansion of the market economy?
It contributed to the accumulation of capital and spurred the commercialization of agriculture, which were essential for a market economy's growth.
What was the primary economic effect of new banking and finance innovations during the Commercial Revolution?
These innovations promoted the growth of urban financial centers and the expansion of a money-based economy.
What were two key innovations in banking and finance that promoted economic growth from 1450-1648?
Innovations included double-entry bookkeeping for tracking transactions and the establishment of new financial institutions like the Bank of Amsterdam.
What was a negative social consequence of population growth and the price revolution?
These pressures contributed to uneven price increases which reduced the living standards for some segments of the population.
What were key features of the 'commercialization of agriculture' in western Europe?
Key features included the enclosure of lands for commercial farming and the establishment of freehold tenure, giving landowners more control.
What were two specific problems that strained resources in growing cities?
Strained resources led to significant sanitation problems and an increase in crime.
How did the new economic elite relate to the traditional land-holding elites?
Their relationship varied significantly across Europe's different geographic regions.
Summarize the key social effects of the Commercial Revolution from 1450-1648.
The period saw the creation of a new economic elite, a reduction in living standards for some due to population pressure, and challenges to urban governance from migration.
What was the price revolution?
The price revolution was a period of continuing, uneven price increases, partly caused by population pressures, that occurred in Europe during the 16th century.
Summarize the key economic effects of the Commercial Revolution from 1450-1648.
The period saw the growth of a money economy, the accumulation of capital, the expansion of the market economy, and the rise of urban financial centers.