Economic and Social History of Medieval Europe

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The book presents Henri Pirenne's influential theories on European history, particularly the Pirenne Thesis, which explores the origins of the Middle Ages through state formation and trade shifts. It also examines Belgium's medieval history and the evolution of medieval cities. Pirenne posited that significant social, economic, cultural, and religious changes stemmed from deeper causes, shaping the perspectives of later historians, including those of the French "Annales" School. Despite facing opposition, his ideas remain foundational in medieval studies.