Question

Artisans and merchants don't work the land like peasants do. When the population grows, peasants work more land and provide the bulk of the food, even though farming doesn't make as much money as artisans and merchants do?

Answer 1

In historical agrarian societies, the production by peasants and the specialization in trade by artisans and merchants formed the core of the economy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The roles of artisans, merchants, and peasants were integral to the development of agrarian and commercial economies. Artisans and merchants specialized in crafts and trade, while peasants were primarily involved in farming. Despite the lower profits from agriculture compared to the trades of artisans and merchants, the food surplus generated by peasants led to population growth and the ability to support larger, more urban societies. These specializations formed the backbone of early civilizations, promoting a reliance on the exchange of goods and services.

In history, farmers faced challenges with technological advancements and exploitation by the aristocracy and urban elites. The lack of improvements in farming technology meant that farmers had few incentives to increase productivity, while societal constraints limited their ability to rise economically. The wealthy and powerful often controlled land and resources, creating a hierarchy that influenced social and economic structures, and marginalized peasant communities.

Over time, with the advent of modernization and industrialization, the social and economic dynamics shifted, leading to changes in the roles and wealth distribution among the aristocracy, artisans, and peasant classes. This transitional phase marked a significant turn in human societal development, which can be observed throughout history.