The Guiding Rules and Principles of Ragusa During the Middle Ages

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Recommended: Commerce and trade in Middle Ages Europe

It is the aim of this report to examine and present in as concise a from as possible the principles and rules which guided and regulated the economic activities of Ragusa during the period known as the Middle Ages. Moreover, touching upon the primary commercial institutions and players that helped establish this city, how this city regulated itself along with gearing itself to prosperity.
Hypothesis:
The dissertation of this research report will focus on demonstrating how Ragusa’s economy flourished in the Middle Ages, along with the activities that were conducted to promote the well-being of the civilians of this city.
Methodology:
This report triggers the interest to research the different methods that Ragusa utilized to promote its economic status and the activities that were conducted to promote a healthy economy. During this research, qualitative research methods will be considered. Numerous scholarly journals and articles in the library and on the internet will be utilized to enlighten more on the economy and the key players in the Ragusean history. The various articles and journals used for this research are explicitly cited below.

Background
Examining the historical literature of Ragusa now known as Dubrovnik, it can be noticed that Ragusa was a rather small city, with minute natural resources. It was deemed one of the most successful states in eastern Mediterranean due its large quantity of shipping and trade, level of wealth and architectural and cultural achievements. Its effective governance with atypical benevolent rule, offered several institutions favorable to commerce and offered social provisions such as education, health care, quarantine systems and lastly provisions to reserve grains in time of need. The econ...

... middle of paper ...

...itutions, moreover, served the rich princes, merchants who were unaware of the Italian banking system.
Conclusion
Ragusa, in the medieval era, was considered a unique case of a small economy with no source of agricultural or other resources, however, by the 14th century was a prosperous city by trading with the Balkans and Italians. Location played an important role along with its wise policies that promoted prosperity.
With excellent trading provisions and a strong legal system geared Ragusa towards its wealth and prosperity. Ragusa/Dubrovnik is an excellent example of an early economy, proving that today’s institutional paradigm is not a new system but rather related back to the late medieval era.

Berkovic, S. “Foreign Policy of The Dubrovnik Republic (Example of International Cooperation and Diplomatic Skill)”. Politicka Misao 2010 Vol. 46, No.4,pp.217-220

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