what did merchants do 1800

In the 1800s, merchants played a critical role in the economy by buying and selling goods, often operating as middlemen between producers and consumers. They would travel to different regions to purchase goods and then sell them in local markets or trade them with other merchants. Some merchants also engaged in importing and exporting goods, facilitating international trade. Additionally, merchants were involved in various industries such as textiles, agriculture, and manufacturing, helping to stimulate economic growth and development.