Question

As feudalism ended in Western Europe, which two groups became the backbone of the middle class? A) clergy and farmers B) farmers and doctors C) lawyers and merchants D) merchants and ship owners

Answer 1

Option D. Merchants and ship owners is the correct answer.

As the feudalism ended in Europe, it was replaced by mercantilism in which merchants and ship owners played an important role. The discovery of sea routes enabled the merchants and ship owners to enjoy the profits of a growing international trade. The merchants and ship owners took great risks in shipping products and materials across the seas and thus became the backbone of middle class and society of the time.