How did an agricultural surplus relate to expanded trade during the High Middle Ages?

A.
Trade increased because surplus crops could be traded.

B.
Trade decreased because surplus crops were needed to feed local populations.

C.
Trade decreased because surplus crops led to an oversupply of grains that could not be sold.

D.
Trade increased regionally but decreased globally because trade networks had shrunk..

A. Trade increased because surplus crops could be traded.

The correct answer is:

A. Trade increased because surplus crops could be traded.

During the High Middle Ages, an agricultural surplus played a significant role in expanding trade. The surplus crops, produced beyond the needs of the local population, could be traded with other regions, leading to an increase in trade. This contributed to the growth of regional and international trade networks as trading opportunities expanded, fostering economic development during this period.