Which of the following best describes why Mehmed II continued to trade with the Genoese despite their alliance with the Byzantines?(1 point)

Responses

The Genoese betrayed the Byzantines, so the Ottomans trusted them.

Mehmed II understood the importance and benefits of maintaining trade with the Genoese, just as the Byzantines understood.

Genoa was also a Muslim kingdom and its similar faith made it a natural ally.

They were already trading partners.

Mehmed II understood the importance and benefits of maintaining trade with the Genoese, just as the Byzantines understood.

The correct response is: Mehmed II understood the importance and benefits of maintaining trade with the Genoese, just as the Byzantines understood.

To determine the best answer, we need to analyze the context of Mehmed II's decision to continue trading with the Genoese despite their alliance with the Byzantines. The Genoese were powerful maritime traders and had established trading partnerships with various nations, including the Byzantines.

Option 1 suggests that the Ottomans trusted the Genoese because they betrayed the Byzantines. However, there is no information provided to support this claim or to suggest that the betrayal influenced the Ottomans' trust in the Genoese.

Option 3 states that Genoa was also a Muslim kingdom and their similar faith made them a natural ally. While religious similarities have often played a role in alliances, especially during this time period, the fact that Genoa was a Muslim kingdom is not mentioned in the question.

Option 4 states that they were already trading partners. This option acknowledges the preexisting trade relationship between Mehmed II and the Genoese.

Option 2 states that Mehmed II understood the importance and benefits of maintaining trade with the Genoese, just as the Byzantines understood. This option suggests that both Mehmed II and the Byzantines recognized the advantages of trade with the Genoese.

Based on the information provided, option 2, "Mehmed II understood the importance and benefits of maintaining trade with the Genoese, just as the Byzantines understood," seems to best describe why Mehmed II continued to trade with the Genoese despite their alliance with the Byzantines. Explanation: Mehmed II likely recognized the economic benefits and significance of maintaining trade with the Genoese, just as the Byzantines did. Both parties understood the advantages that came from trading with the Genoese, thereby outweighing any concerns about their alliance with the Byzantines.