ampagne experienced economic and social growth in its region. As trade grew, merchants needed places where they could exchange goods. Many villages had weekly market days, but these local markets did not attract large crowds. Some merchants began to sell goods during religious festivals. Then some feudal lords established fairs for the sale of imported goods. They realized that they could become wealthy by charging fees, or taxes, on the merchandise sold. The feudal lords guaranteed special protection to merchants who held a fair. Champagne, a region in northeastern France that lay directly along the trade route between Italy and northern Europe, held the most important and best-known fairs. In Champagne traders exchanged the textiles, wool, and wines of Europe for Asian luxury goods. Six fairs, each lasting four to seven weeks, were held annually at four towns in the region. Held at different times, the fairs provided a central marketplace for all of Europe. Fairs helped to create ties between regions and to broaden the narrow outlook of the people. Travelers came from great distances to attend large fairs, which offered entertainment in addition to the opportunity to buy and sell. Jugglers, clowns, and musicians entertained the crowds just as they do at county and state fairs today. Champagnes popularity and prowess in society was enhanced by the establishment of fairs. As people from many different nations went home after the fairs, they spread the word about these large fairs to others around them. Soon, Champagne was well known as a symbol of strength and economic growth. Champagne controlled much of general trade because goods from many different nations were passed through there by the fairs. Also, by charging fees on sold merchandise, the feudal lords of Champagne became wealthy and therefore powerful and influential, increasing their popularity.Therefore, the time period after the Crusades was a time of cultur...
