Lombards

Lombards are a historical group from Northern Italy, originally known for their skills in finance and trade during the early Middle Ages. They became prominent for lending money and were particularly active in banking, which contributed to the development of modern financial systems. The term "Lombard" is also used in finance today to refer to a type of loan secured by collateral, often involving assets like stocks or bonds. Their influence extended to various European countries, impacting commerce and banking practices. Overall, Lombards played a significant role in shaping economic frameworks throughout history.