A 14th Century Merchant's Observations

Imagine a merchant traveling extensively across different regions of the world in the 14th century. Based on the economic conditions of that era, which of the following observations would they most likely have made about the distribution of wealth?

Wealth Disparities in the 14th Century

In the 14th century, a person's country of residence was the primary determinant of their economic standing relative to everyone else in the world.

Structure of Global Inequality in the 14th Century

Match each description of global income distribution with the historical period it most accurately represents.

In the 14th century, while significant wealth gaps existed between the rich and poor within any given society, the income differences ______ countries were relatively small.

In the 14th century, an individual's economic destiny was more closely tied to their social standing within their own society (e.g., being a peasant versus a lord) than to the overall wealth of the country they lived in. Which characteristic of the global economy at that time best explains this situation?

Comparing Economic Fates in the 14th Century

Which of the following scenarios best illustrates the primary characteristics of global income distribution in the 14th century?

Social Hierarchies and Wealth in the 14th Century

Determinants of Individual Economic Prospects in the 14th Century