Merchant Guilds

Merchant guilds were associations of merchants in medieval towns, formed to protect their interests and regulate trade. They established rules for doing business, set standards for goods, and negotiated with local authorities. Guilds helped their members by providing support, training, and sometimes financial assistance. They also fought for their members' rights against competition and taxation. By creating a network for cooperation and mutual benefit, merchant guilds contributed to the growth of commerce in the Middle Ages and laid the groundwork for modern business practices.