The 15th-century establishment of the Casa di San Giorgio is highlighted as a major landmark in European fiscal history, serving as a bank that held the public debt of the republic.
The book is considered a "must-read" for understanding medieval Italian city-states and filling a significant gap in English-language literature regarding Genoa's history. If you'd like to dive deeper, I can provide: Genoa and the Genoese, 958-1528
The book maps how Genoa became a thriving republic with an extensive, far-flung overseas empire. The 15th-century establishment of the Casa di San
Despite their prosperity, the Genoese struggled with internal strife, frequently changing governments and, in times of crisis, handing power over to foreign rulers. Epstein provides insights into daily life, covering topics
The medieval phrase "Genoese therefore a merchant" summarizes the city's commercial focus and its role in pioneering modern capitalism, including ship financing, risk management, and the early use of holding shares in overseas ventures.
Genoese history is portrayed as a mix of intense patriotism alongside a notable lack of cooperation among its citizens.
Epstein provides insights into daily life, covering topics such as slavery, the role of women, the influence of the Crusades, and the city's combative relationship with the Islamic world. Major Themes