Which of the following best describes why Mehmed II continued to trade with the Genoese despite their alliance with the Byzantines?(1 point) Responses Genoa was also a Muslim kingdom and its similar faith made it a natural ally. Genoa was also a Muslim kingdom and its similar faith made it a natural ally. The Genoese betrayed the Byzantines, so the Ottomans trusted them. The Genoese betrayed the Byzantines, so the Ottomans trusted them. They were already trading partners. They were already trading partners. Mehmed II understood the importance and benefits of maintaining trade with the Genoese, just as the Byzantines understood
the benefits of maintaining trade with them.
the importance of their alliance with the Genoese.
To determine the answer to this question, we need to evaluate the provided options and their connection to the historical context.
The first option suggests that Genoa was a Muslim kingdom and their shared faith made them natural allies. However, this is not accurate since Genoa was not a Muslim kingdom but a Christian maritime republic.
The second option claims that the Genoese betrayed the Byzantines, thereby gaining the Ottomans' trust. While it is true that there were instances of betrayal between the Genoese and Byzantines during this time, it is not explicitly stated whether this was the reason for Mehmed II's decision to continue trading with the Genoese.
The third option asserts that they were already trading partners, implying that the existing trade relationship between the Ottomans and the Genoese influenced Mehmed II's decision. This is a plausible reason as it suggests that economic considerations had a significant role in the continuation of the trade.
The fourth option's explanation seems to be incomplete, as it is cut off. Without the full statement, it is challenging to assess its accuracy.
Based on the provided options, the best answer appears to be: They were already trading partners. This choice aligns with the historical context and highlights the significance of preexisting economic ties between the Ottomans and the Genoese. Trade relationships often persist even during times of conflicts or rivalries as economic interests can outweigh political alliances.