Medieval Guilds

Medieval guilds were associations of skilled workers and craftsmen in the Middle Ages, responsible for regulating their trades. They set standards for quality, controlled training through apprenticeships, and established fair prices. Guilds also provided social support for members, helping them during illness or hardship. They often held significant political power within towns, influencing local laws and economies. By fostering a sense of community and mutual assistance, guilds played a crucial role in the development of commerce and the middle class during this period.