Two Italies

Discover the intricate economic history of Italy through the insightful lens of David Abulafia in his compelling book, Two Italies. Published in 2005 by Cambridge University Press, this scholarly work spans an engaging 332 pages that examine the economic development of the Norman kingdom of Sicily alongside the bustling maritime ports of Genoa, Pisa, and Venice. Abulafia meticulously argues that during the twelfth century, the kingdom emerged as a significant exporter of vital commodities such as wheat and raw cotton. Furthermore, the northern merchants' influence on these exports is thoroughly analyzed, revealing crucial dynamics within this vibrant historical context. For anyone interested in the economic history of Italy and its profound connections to greater European dynamics, Two Italies is an essential read.