Northern Germany was central to both trade and society in the Baltic region during the Middle Ages. Here, there were many growing towns with merchants and craftsmen. Tradesmen came with goods from all over Europe. The powerful trading company, the Hanseatic League, had its centre here.
The area consisted of small principalities which all belonged to the great German-Roman Empire. The principalities had strong rulers with a lot of influence on political matters in the Baltic region. On the following pages, you can read about three of these principalities: Holstein, Pommern and Mecklenburg. Perhaps you have heard of Erik of Pommern and Albert of Mecklenburg, but do you know Count John and Count Gerhard of Holstein?
Under "Town Life", you will learn more about the important towns of the area.
Northern Germany was central to both trade and society in the Baltic region during the Middle Ages. Here, there were many growing towns with merchants and craftsmen. Tradesmen came with goods from all over Europe. The powerful trading company, the Hanseatic League, had its centre here.
The area consisted of small principalities which all belonged to the great German-Roman Empire. The principalities had strong rulers with a lot of influence on political matters in the Baltic region. On the following pages, you can read about three of these principalities: Holstein, Pommern and Mecklenburg. Perhaps you have heard of Erik of Pommern and Albert of Mecklenburg, but do you know Count John and Count Gerhard of Holstein?
Under "Town Life", you will learn more about the important towns of the area.