how come in the middle ages, wealth equaled power?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Middle_Ages
Wealth meant a man could have land, substantial housing, armor, weapons, horses, food for his horses, people who could care for his armor and weapons, etc.
These kinds of things (metal things, horses, food, etc.) were expensive. Most people didn't have the means to own them. Those who did have these things could attract others to band with them and form armies, small and eventually large.
Remember, in the Middle Ages, there was just about no middle class -- there were the wealthy and the poor and not many in between.
Other teachers may have more information to add.
=)
In the Middle Ages, wealth equaled power for several reasons:
1. Land ownership: Land was the primary source of wealth and power in feudal society during the Middle Ages. Those who owned large estates had control over resources such as agriculture, forests, and minerals, which provided them with economic and political dominance.
2. Military strength: Wealth allowed individuals to maintain a strong military force. Owning armor, weapons, horses, and training soldiers required considerable financial resources. Possessing a well-equipped and well-trained army enabled the wealthy to protect their lands, extend their influence, and defend themselves against rivals.
3. Political influence: The wealthy had the means to influence political decisions. They could afford to provide financial support to rulers, effectively becoming their patrons. In return, they received favors, privileges, and positions of power within the government, allowing them to shape policies and influence the course of events.
4. Social status: In the hierarchical society of the Middle Ages, wealth was closely associated with social status and prestige. The accumulation of wealth and possessions displayed a person's success and provided them with the means to live a luxurious lifestyle. This elevated their social standing and granted them respect and authority within their communities.
It is important to note that wealth was not solely the result of personal achievements or abilities during this time. Inherited wealth played a significant role, as access to land and resources often passed down through generations, reinforcing social hierarchies and consolidating power within specific families or noble lineages.
In the Middle Ages, wealth equaled power for several reasons. First, having wealth meant that individuals could own land, which was a fundamental source of power during that time. Land provided not only a source of income through agriculture and other forms of production but also served as a means of asserting control over a specific territory and the people living on it.
Additionally, wealth enabled individuals to afford essential resources and assets such as substantial housing, armor, weapons, horses, and food for both themselves and their horses. These were expensive commodities that most people couldn't afford. By possessing these resources, wealthy individuals could establish themselves as knights or lords and attract others to join their cause. They could build armies, both small and eventually large, which further enhanced their power and ability to influence events.
It's important to note that during the Middle Ages, there was a significant lack of a middle class. Society was primarily divided into two main groups – the wealthy and the poor. There weren't many individuals who fell in between these extremes. This concentration of wealth further reinforced the association between wealth and power.
If you're interested in learning more about the Middle Ages and the relationship between wealth and power during that time, you can refer to the provided Wikipedia link on the topic.