I agree to a certain extent that foreign talent was a factor to the decline of Venice.
Firstly, its involvement in the mainland has forced the Venetian government to turn its attention to controlling these mainland territories rather than trade. One way for Venice to protect its territories and commercial interests was by taking advantages of the rivalry among the mainland states. Venice tried to achieve balance of power by offering to help one fight against the other. However, Venice's act of switching alliances with different opposing states proved that it has constantly treading on fragile relations with the larger states. It also meant that Venice could come under attack should negotiations fail. This situation put the Venetians at high risk as there was no certainty which alliance would ultimately benefit Venice.
Secondly, the Ottoman Empire, originated from Turkey, had a powerful empire in Middle East and North Africa. It wanted to expand into Europe. In addition, the Ottomans had replaced Genoa as Venice's greatest competitor for maritime control. Trade was greatly disrupted as Ottomans acquired many sea ports. Besides, Venice was forced to give up some of its less important territories to avoid further losses. Sea campaigns were also started, and as a result, these wars drained Venice's resources and manpower. This reduce Venetian trade.
Thirdly, the League of Cambrai, a military alliance, was formed in 1508 which consisted of Spain, Hungary, France. Venice's growing influence in region made it unpopular among the various mainland states. This reduces the power of Venice and divides its territories amongst the larger states. It had also defeated a Venetian mercenary army. The cost of the wars drained and weakened Venice’s resources. Venice had to raise taxes to finance the employment of its mercenary armies as well as to replenish its supply of weapons.
As a result of all these, it has clearly shown that Venice needs to spend large amounts of resources and wealth to build up its military. In addition, Venice needs to recruit members to the army to accommodate with the large number of members in the League of Cambrai. This makes Venice vulnerable as it is unable to overcome trade competition and maintain their efficiency in managing voyage. Trade monopoly is also greatly affected. This also show that foreign threats have successfully diverted Venice from trade.
I agree to the certain extent that foreign threats was a factor that contribute to the decline of Venice.
Venice tried to achieve balance of power by offering to help one fight against the other.For example, Venice created alliances with large states such as the feuding France and Spain when the occasion suited the interest. The Ottoman Empire had expand its influence from the Middle East into Europe over land and later by sea.The Venetians knew that they could not face the large Ottoman armies on their own. Their involvement in the mainland had drained a large part of the city-state's energy and resources. Venice was forced to give up some of its less important territories to avoid further losses.Venice's growing influence in the region made it unpopular among the various mainland states. Some large states felt that Venice was gaining too much power and control over northern Italy and wanted to recapture the Venetian territories.The League aimed to reduce the power of Venice and divide its territories amongst the larger states. As a result, wars occured.The cost of the wars drained and weakened Venice's resources. Venice's act of switching alliances with different opposing states proved that it was constantly treading on fragile relations with the larger states. Venice could come under attack should negotiations fail. As there was no certainty which alliance would ultimately benefit Venice, Venice was at a high risk of being attack by other countries. Venice had no one to turn to in times of wars as alliances were made with no genuine desire to help one another; they were made only with preference to trade privileges. The Ottoman Empire-Venice wars disrupted trade.The Ottomans impose high tariffs on Venetian traders in the ports they control. Venetian traders would not continue to enjoy the trading privileges that they had before. Venice's economy declined.
Marco Polo's tales of his voyages encouraged many European explorers to follow in his footsteps. One of the explorers was Christopher Columbus who discovered the Americans in 1492.In 1497, the Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama, successfully reached Calicut, a thriving spice centre in India, by going round the Cape of Good Hope.By the 17th century, new trade rivals emerged when the Dutch East INdia Company was formed.The English East India Company( EIC) specialised in bringing cotton and pepper from India, and tea and procelain from China. These developments adversely affected Venice's position as an entrepot port.The Dutch and British had better-designed ships. To saty competitive, the Venetians imitated the design of these ships. However, the Venetians sailors lacked the skills to operate them.As a result,Venice lost some of its trading partners. Its trading partnes would turn to other states which offered a better trade. With the discovery of new sea routes, the Portugese were able to buy their spices directly from India and this led to competition with the Venetians. This new sea route destroyed Venice's monopoly of the lucrative spice trade and greatly reduced the large profits which Venetian traders had earned for centuries.
The Venetians became less prepared for war as they shifted their focus away from security matters.The lifestyles of the Venetians changed as they became richer. However, their pursuit of entertainment and pleasures helped in the flourishing of the arts in Venice.Many wealthy nobbles indulged in lavish parties and celebraions, known as Carnevale which could last as long as six months. Gambling halls grew and some rich nobbles who were addicted to gambling lost their fortunes. As a result, the defence force of Venice was weaken as the Venetians were more concerned about wealth than maintianing the security of the city-state.
In conclusion, all factors contribute to the decline of Venice. Venice failed to respond effectively to internal and external changes. If Venice were not to maintain its monopolistic position, it might be able to withsatnd the downturn.
I agree to the certain extent that foreign threats was a factor that contribute to the decline of Venice.
Venice tried to achieve balance of power by offering to help one fight against the other.For example, Venice created alliances with large states such as the feuding France and Spain when the occasion suited the interest. The Ottoman Empire had expand its influence from the Middle East into Europe over land and later by sea.The Venetians knew that they could not face the large Ottoman armies on their own. Their involvement in the mainland had drained a large part of the city-state's energy and resources. Venice was forced to give up some of its less important territories to avoid further losses.Venice's growing influence in the region made it unpopular among the various mainland states. Some large states felt that Venice was gaining too much power and control over northern Italy and wanted to recapture the Venetian territories.The League aimed to reduce the power of Venice and divide its territories amongst the larger states. As a result, wars occured.The cost of the wars drained and weakened Venice's resources. Venice's act of switching alliances with different opposing states proved that it was constantly treading on fragile relations with the larger states. Venice could come under attack should negotiations fail. As there was no certainty which alliance would ultimately benefit Venice, Venice was at a high risk of being attack by other countries. Venice had no one to turn to in times of wars as alliances were made with no genuine desire to help one another; they were made only with preference to trade privileges. The Ottoman Empire-Venice wars disrupted trade.The Ottomans impose high tariffs on Venetian traders in the ports they control. Venetian traders would not continue to enjoy the trading privileges that they had before. Venice's economy declined.
Marco Polo's tales of his voyages encouraged many European explorers to follow in his footsteps. One of the explorers was Christopher Columbus who discovered the Americans in 1492.In 1497, the Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama, successfully reached Calicut, a thriving spice centre in India, by going round the Cape of Good Hope.By the 17th century, new trade rivals emerged when the Dutch East INdia Company was formed.The English East India Company( EIC) specialised in bringing cotton and pepper from India, and tea and procelain from China. These developments adversely affected Venice's position as an entrepot port.The Dutch and British had better-designed ships. To saty competitive, the Venetians imitated the design of these ships. However, the Venetians sailors lacked the skills to operate them.As a result,Venice lost some of its trading partners. Its trading partnes would turn to other states which offered a better trade. With the discovery of new sea routes, the Portugese were able to buy their spices directly from India and this led to competition with the Venetians. This new sea route destroyed Venice's monopoly of the lucrative spice trade and greatly reduced the large profits which Venetian traders had earned for centuries.
The Venetians became less prepared for war as they shifted their focus away from security matters.The lifestyles of the Venetians changed as they became richer. However, their pursuit of entertainment and pleasures helped in the flourishing of the arts in Venice.Many wealthy nobbles indulged in lavish parties and celebraions, known as Carnevale which could last as long as six months. Gambling halls grew and some rich nobbles who were addicted to gambling lost their fortunes. As a result, the defence force of Venice was weaken as the Venetians were more concerned about wealth than maintianing the security of the city-state.
In conclusion, all factors contribute to the decline of Venice. Venice failed to respond effectively to internal and external changes. If Venice were not to maintain its monopolistic position, it might be able to withsatnd the downturn.
Dear green tea flower and michelle Please do not use the phrase "certain/little/large extent". Green tea flower - focus only on foreign threats and the impact, please see KKX. As for the conclusion,if you feel that all factors are important, then you need to show how they are inter-linked. As for michelle - same comment as for Green tea flower. Thank you
I agree that foreign threats was a factor in the decline of Venice.
Firstly, the involvement in the mainland. The political developments in Europe forced the Venetian government to turn its attention to controlling the nearby mainland territories. As these mainland territories had all along been supplying Venice with essential resources like food and water, Venice needed to secure and maintain their supply of resources for the city-state's growing population and expanding industries. Venice therefore take advantage of the rivalry among the mainland states and achieve balance of power by offering to help one fight against the other. However, Venice's act of switching alliances with different opposing states proved that it has constantly treading on fragile relations with the larger states. It also meant that Venice could come under attack should negotiations fail. This situation put the Venetians at high risk as there was no certainty which alliance would ultimately benefit Venice.
Next, Ottoman Empire originated from Turkey, had a powerful empire in Middle East and North Africa. It wanted to expand into Europe. As a result, it captured many of Venice’s coastal territories. Trade was disrupted as Ottomans controlled many sea ports. This will reduce Venetian trade, the lifeline of her economy.
Lastly, The League of Cambrai. Venice's growing influence in the region made it unpopular among the various mainland states. They wanted to recapture the Venetian territories. A military alliance against Venice known as the League of Cambrai was formed. Most major powers in Europe like Spain, Hungary and France were involved. Venetian mercenary army was badly defeated so many territories fell to members of the League. As a result, the cost of the wars drained and weakened Venice's resources.
In conclusion, Venice had to spend large amounts of resources and wealth to build up its military thus this divert Venice attention away from trade.
Dear Krystal The examples are great. The impact statement is fine but you may want to elaborate further by explaining how by diverting resources away from trade may affect the economic development of venice.
I agree that foreign talent is a factor in the decilne of Venice but there are other factors such as
The Ottoman Empire originated in Turkey and had a powerful empire in the Middle East and North Africa. It wanted to expand into Europe, as a result, it captured many of Venice's coastal territories. Trade was disrupted as the Ottomans controlled many sea ports. This reduced Venetian trade and the lifeline of her economy.
The League of Cambrai's growing influence in Europe increased jealousy amongst some European countries. In 1508, the League of Cambrai consisted of Spain, France and Hungary. The worked together to reduce the power of Venice and defeated the Venetian army. The cost of the wars drained and weakened Venice's resources. As a result, Venice had to spend large amounts of resources to build up its military. This diverted Venince's attention away from trade, resulting in a loss in trade investments.
New sea routes were discovered when the Portugese, under Vasco da Gama, sailed around the Cape of Good Hope in Africa and found a new sea route from India to the East. This new sea route allowed them to bypass Venice-controlled territories. This destroyed Venice's trade monopoly in spices and they no longer were the main sea power in Europe. New trade rivals emerged when the East India Company (EIC) was set up in 1600 and the Dutch East India Company (VOC) in 1602. Both companies introduced a new method of trading. The old method required traders to receive a permit from the government so as to trade freely in Venice and Portugal and trade at their own expenses. However, EIC and VOC were big companies with shareholders. They were well organised and had more resources. They were also subsidised and backed by the government. Failure to adapt to the new economic stratigies weakened the Venetians which reduced her competitiveness in the industry. As a result, rise of new European powers such as the Portugese and the Dutch posed severe competiton to Venice's position as a maritime power especially her monopoly of the lucrative spice trade.
Rotation of officers meant that there were no permanent competent leaders. Nicolo de Canal and Antonio Grimani who were execellent ambassador and financeier respectively were incompetent in military warfare and faced disastrous defeat from the Ottomans and hence Venice became weak and vulnerable to external threats. To finance wars, there was suspension on salary and higher taxes in trade. This created unhappiness amongst civil servants and the poor. The Senate became dominant and candidates bribed the poor to vote for them. A group of nobels began to dominate government and bribery became part of life. This led to corruption and inefficiency in the government. Venice had no conscription to navy and over-relied on mercenaries. With other states being able to pay mercenaries better and had stronger citizens' army, Venice became weakened as more and more mercenaries preferred to fight for other states. Vulnurability to external threats increased due to this. As a result, the political system was exposed to corruption and abuse of power. This led to the population losing trust in the government and increased the vulnerability from external threats.
The rich indulged in fine living with countless parades and celebrations. The year-end party lasted for weeks and the poor and rich involved in gambling, like the Carnevale, which could last as long as 6 months.In the 16th century, the government could not find volunteers to serve in the navy. As a result, Venetians are easily distracted from daily duties and productive work and commitment level of people reduced drastically.
Dear Jacqueline Very good work. Your examples for all factors are great. But I need you to focus on foreign threat only and as for the impact statement for the latter, why foreign threat led to the decline of Venice. Any input on this???
I agree that foreign threats was a factor that led to the decline of Venice.
The first factor is involvement in the mainland . At the beginning of the 15th century , political developments in Europe forced the Venetian government to turn its attention to controlling the nearby main land territories. Venice needed to secure and maintain their supply of resources for the city-state's growing population and expanding empire. Also, in order to protect its territories and commercial interests , they took advantage of the rivalry among the mainland states.Venice tried to achieve balance of power by offering to help one side fight against each other. For example, Venice created alliances with large states such as the feuding France and Spain when the occasion suited its interest. However this means that Venice had poor relationship with the larger states as Venice was constantly switching alliances. Venice was also under risk of being attacked if the negotiations were to fail. To deal with this, Venice had to equip themselves with strong army which could only be done by recruiting mercenaries to fight its wars given Venice's small population.The rivalry among the mainland states also made the overland trade route unsafe.Venetians were concerned as they depended on the route for trade. As a result, this would mean that Venice was taking a risk by constantly changing its alliance.Any failed negotiations could lead to the larger states attacking Venice , Thus Destroying Venice. Trade was also interrupted and this might cause a fall in trade, which might eventually lead to decrease in income earned.
From around the 13th century, the Ottoman Empire began expanding its influence from the middle east into Europe. In the 15th century , Genoa was under the Ottoman empire.Venice knew that they could not face the large ottoman armies on their own as they were drained by their involvement in the mainland. Thus, the gave up some of their smaller ans less important territories to avoid trouble. The Venetians fought hard to maintain their control of the Adriatic Sea,Venice had to use its galleys to fight off attacks by the Ottomans, As a result, this disrupted its use if galleys for trading purposes.
The League of Cambria was made , due to the rising unpopularity among the various mainland states. They wanted to recapture the Venetian territories. The League of Cambria consists of large powers in Europe , such as Spain Hungary and France.The League managed to defeat the Venetian mercenary army.As a result , many of Venice's territories fell into the members of the League. The wars between the League and Venice also drained large amount of money from Venice.
In conclusion, Political developments in the mainland states and the rise of the empire poses serious challenges to Venice. Venice had to spent large amounts of money, supplies to strengthen its armies.Venice was also in a situation where there were more money being used than earned. Thus Venice was drained of territories, money,trade and resources.
I agree that foreign threats is a factor in the decline of Venice.
Firstly, the involvement in the mainland forced the Venetian government to turn its attention to controlling the nearby mainland territories. As these mainland territories had all along been supplying Venice with essential resources like food and water, Venice needed to secure and maintain their supply of resources for the city-state's growing population and expanding industries. Venice therefore took advantage of the rivalry among the mainland states and achieve balance of power by offering to help one fight against the other. However, Venice's act of switching alliances with different opposing states proved that it has constantly treading on fragile relations with the larger states. It also meant that Venice could come under attack should negotiations fail. This situation put the Venetians at high risk as there was no certainty which alliance would ultimately benefit Venice.
The Ottoman Empire originated from Turkey & had a powerful empire in Middle East and North Africa. It wanted to expand into Europe . As a result, it captured many of Venice’s coastal territories.Trade was disrupted as Ottomans controlled many sea ports. This will reduce Venetian trade, the lifeline of her economy. Besides, Venice was forced to give up some of its less important territories to avoid further losses. Sea campaigns were also started, and as a result, these wars drained Venice's resources and manpower.
As for the League of Cambrai, growing influence in Europe increase jealousy among some European countries. In 1508, the League of Cambrai consisted of Spain, France and Hungary. They worked together to reduce the power of Venice and defeated the Venetian army. The cost of the wars drained and weakened Venice's resources. Venice had to raise taxes to finance the employment of its mercenary armies as well as to replenish its supply of weapons. As a result, the cost of the wars was drained and it weakened Venice’s resources.
All in all, foreign threat has clearly shown that venice had to spend large amounts of resources and wealth to build up its military – this divert Venice attention away from trade.
I agree that foreign threat is a factor that caused the decline of Venice.
Firstly, the involvement in the mainland. Political developments in Europe forced the Venetian government to turn its attention to controlling the nearby mainland territories. Venice needed to secure and maintain their supply of resources from the mainland territories for the city-state’s growing population and expanding industries. The rivalry among the mainland states made the overland trade route unsafe. As a result, the trade and revenue of Venice was affected as they depended on these commercial crossroads for trade and wealth.
Secondly, the Ottoman Empire. Ottoman Empire originated from Turkey and had a powerful empire in Middle East and North Africa. It wanted to expand into Europe. Venice was forced to give up some of its less important ports. Venetians were left to fight on their own against the Ottomans due to resentment that Venice faced from the European states. As a result, it captured many of Venice’s coastal territories. Trade was disrupted as Ottomans controlled many sea ports. This will reduce Venetian trade, the lifeline of her economy.
Lastly, the League of Cambrai. Growing influence in Europe increase jealousy among some European countries. In 1508, military alliance known as League of Cambrai was formed. It consisted of Spain, Hungary and France. The League of Cambrai reduced the power of Venice. They defeated a Venetian army. As a result, many of its territories fell to members of the League. In addition, the cost of the wars drained and weakened Venice’s resources.
In conclusion, I think foreign threats is an important factor that caused the decline of Venice. As a result of foreign threats, Venice had to spend large amounts of resources and wealth to build up its military. This diverts Venice attention away from trade which affects its revenue.
Dear Constance,Jacq,Cheryl Constance - very good examples. For the impact statement, may want to add in why this factor would affect trade and economic development. In addition, use 'as a result' instead of 'in conclusion' Jacq - only the impact statement need to be improved by adding the fact that diverting resources away from trade might lead to inefficiency the way trade was being carried out. Hence Venice would lost her advantage to her trade rivals and thereby to less revenue collected. Cheryl - same comment as Jacq. In addition, avoid the phrase 'in conclusion' as the beginning statement of your impact statement. Used 'as a result/hence/therefore'
I hope this blog will be useful in sharing your ideas and concerns on Geography and Social Studies.
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15 comments:
I agree to a certain extent that foreign talent was a factor to the decline of Venice.
Firstly, its involvement in the mainland has forced the Venetian government to turn its attention to controlling these mainland territories rather than trade. One way for Venice to protect its territories and commercial interests was by taking advantages of the rivalry among the mainland states. Venice tried to achieve balance of power by offering to help one fight against the other. However, Venice's act of switching alliances with different opposing states proved that it has constantly treading on fragile relations with the larger states. It also meant that Venice could come under attack should negotiations fail. This situation put the Venetians at high risk as there was no certainty which alliance would ultimately benefit Venice.
Secondly, the Ottoman Empire, originated from Turkey, had a powerful empire in Middle East and North Africa. It wanted to expand into Europe. In addition, the Ottomans had replaced Genoa as Venice's greatest competitor for maritime control. Trade was greatly disrupted as Ottomans acquired many sea ports. Besides, Venice was forced to give up some of its less important territories to avoid further losses. Sea campaigns were also started, and as a result, these wars drained Venice's resources and manpower. This reduce Venetian trade.
Thirdly, the League of Cambrai, a military alliance, was formed in 1508 which consisted of Spain, Hungary, France. Venice's growing influence in region made it unpopular among the various mainland states. This reduces the power of Venice and divides its territories amongst the larger states. It had also defeated a Venetian mercenary army. The cost of the wars drained and weakened Venice’s resources. Venice had to raise taxes to finance the employment of its mercenary armies as well as to replenish its supply of weapons.
As a result of all these, it has clearly shown that Venice needs to spend large amounts of resources and wealth to build up its military. In addition, Venice needs to recruit members to the army to accommodate with the large number of members in the League of Cambrai. This makes Venice vulnerable as it is unable to overcome trade competition and maintain their efficiency in managing voyage. Trade monopoly is also greatly affected. This also show that foreign threats have successfully diverted Venice from trade.
By: Khor Ke Xin (5) of Class 4 Aspire 2010
Dear KKX,
Please avoid the phrase, 'certain/small/large extent' in your essay.
Very good impact statement.
Mr Zainudin
I agree to the certain extent that foreign threats was a factor that contribute to the decline of Venice.
Venice tried to achieve balance of power by offering to help one fight against the other.For example, Venice created alliances with large states such as the feuding France and Spain when the occasion suited the interest. The Ottoman Empire had expand its influence from the Middle East into Europe over land and later by sea.The Venetians knew that they could not face the large Ottoman armies on their own. Their involvement in the mainland had drained a large part of the city-state's energy and resources. Venice was forced to give up some of its less important territories to avoid further losses.Venice's growing influence in the region made it unpopular among the various mainland states. Some large states felt that Venice was gaining too much power and control over northern Italy and wanted to recapture the Venetian territories.The League aimed to reduce the power of Venice and divide its territories amongst the larger states. As a result, wars occured.The cost of the wars drained and weakened Venice's resources. Venice's act of switching alliances with different opposing states proved that it was constantly treading on fragile relations with the larger states. Venice could come under attack should negotiations fail. As there was no certainty which alliance would ultimately benefit Venice, Venice was at a high risk of being attack by other countries. Venice had no one to turn to in times of wars as alliances were made with no genuine desire to help one another; they were made only with preference to trade privileges. The Ottoman Empire-Venice wars disrupted trade.The Ottomans impose high tariffs on Venetian traders in the ports they control. Venetian traders would not continue to enjoy the trading privileges that they had before. Venice's economy declined.
Marco Polo's tales of his voyages encouraged many European explorers to follow in his footsteps. One of the explorers was Christopher Columbus who discovered the Americans in 1492.In 1497, the Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama, successfully reached Calicut, a thriving spice centre in India, by going round the Cape of Good Hope.By the 17th century, new trade rivals emerged when the Dutch East INdia Company was formed.The English East India Company( EIC) specialised in bringing cotton and pepper from India, and tea and procelain from China. These developments adversely affected Venice's position as an entrepot port.The Dutch and British had better-designed ships. To saty competitive, the Venetians imitated the design of these ships. However, the Venetians sailors lacked the skills to operate them.As a result,Venice lost some of its trading partners. Its trading partnes would turn to other states which offered a better trade. With the discovery of new sea routes, the Portugese were able to buy their spices directly from India and this led to competition with the Venetians. This new sea route destroyed Venice's monopoly of the lucrative spice trade and greatly reduced the large profits which Venetian traders had earned for centuries.
The Venetians became less prepared for war as they shifted their focus away from security matters.The lifestyles of the Venetians changed as they became richer. However, their pursuit of entertainment and pleasures helped in the flourishing of the arts in Venice.Many wealthy nobbles indulged in lavish parties and celebraions, known as Carnevale which could last as long as six months. Gambling halls grew and some rich nobbles who were addicted to gambling lost their fortunes. As a result, the defence force of Venice was weaken as the Venetians were more concerned about wealth than maintianing the security of the city-state.
In conclusion, all factors contribute to the decline of Venice. Venice failed to respond effectively to internal and external changes. If Venice were not to maintain its monopolistic position, it might be able to withsatnd the downturn.
Jiang PeiYan Jasmine(4) 4Aspire
I agree to the certain extent that foreign threats was a factor that contribute to the decline of Venice.
Venice tried to achieve balance of power by offering to help one fight against the other.For example, Venice created alliances with large states such as the feuding France and Spain when the occasion suited the interest. The Ottoman Empire had expand its influence from the Middle East into Europe over land and later by sea.The Venetians knew that they could not face the large Ottoman armies on their own. Their involvement in the mainland had drained a large part of the city-state's energy and resources. Venice was forced to give up some of its less important territories to avoid further losses.Venice's growing influence in the region made it unpopular among the various mainland states. Some large states felt that Venice was gaining too much power and control over northern Italy and wanted to recapture the Venetian territories.The League aimed to reduce the power of Venice and divide its territories amongst the larger states. As a result, wars occured.The cost of the wars drained and weakened Venice's resources. Venice's act of switching alliances with different opposing states proved that it was constantly treading on fragile relations with the larger states. Venice could come under attack should negotiations fail. As there was no certainty which alliance would ultimately benefit Venice, Venice was at a high risk of being attack by other countries. Venice had no one to turn to in times of wars as alliances were made with no genuine desire to help one another; they were made only with preference to trade privileges. The Ottoman Empire-Venice wars disrupted trade.The Ottomans impose high tariffs on Venetian traders in the ports they control. Venetian traders would not continue to enjoy the trading privileges that they had before. Venice's economy declined.
Marco Polo's tales of his voyages encouraged many European explorers to follow in his footsteps. One of the explorers was Christopher Columbus who discovered the Americans in 1492.In 1497, the Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama, successfully reached Calicut, a thriving spice centre in India, by going round the Cape of Good Hope.By the 17th century, new trade rivals emerged when the Dutch East INdia Company was formed.The English East India Company( EIC) specialised in bringing cotton and pepper from India, and tea and procelain from China. These developments adversely affected Venice's position as an entrepot port.The Dutch and British had better-designed ships. To saty competitive, the Venetians imitated the design of these ships. However, the Venetians sailors lacked the skills to operate them.As a result,Venice lost some of its trading partners. Its trading partnes would turn to other states which offered a better trade. With the discovery of new sea routes, the Portugese were able to buy their spices directly from India and this led to competition with the Venetians. This new sea route destroyed Venice's monopoly of the lucrative spice trade and greatly reduced the large profits which Venetian traders had earned for centuries.
The Venetians became less prepared for war as they shifted their focus away from security matters.The lifestyles of the Venetians changed as they became richer. However, their pursuit of entertainment and pleasures helped in the flourishing of the arts in Venice.Many wealthy nobbles indulged in lavish parties and celebraions, known as Carnevale which could last as long as six months. Gambling halls grew and some rich nobbles who were addicted to gambling lost their fortunes. As a result, the defence force of Venice was weaken as the Venetians were more concerned about wealth than maintianing the security of the city-state.
In conclusion, all factors contribute to the decline of Venice. Venice failed to respond effectively to internal and external changes. If Venice were not to maintain its monopolistic position, it might be able to withsatnd the downturn.
Dear green tea flower and michelle
Please do not use the phrase "certain/little/large extent".
Green tea flower - focus only on foreign threats and the impact, please see KKX. As for the conclusion,if you feel that all factors are important, then you need to show how they are inter-linked.
As for michelle - same comment as for Green tea flower.
Thank you
I agree that foreign threats was a factor in the decline of Venice.
Firstly, the involvement in the mainland. The political developments in Europe forced the Venetian government to turn its attention to controlling the nearby mainland territories. As these mainland territories had all along been supplying Venice with essential resources like food and water, Venice needed to secure and maintain their supply of resources for the city-state's growing population and expanding industries. Venice therefore take advantage of the rivalry among the mainland states and achieve balance of power by offering to help one fight against the other. However, Venice's act of switching alliances with different opposing states proved that it has constantly treading on fragile relations with the larger states. It also meant that Venice could come under attack should negotiations fail. This situation put the Venetians at high risk as there was no certainty which alliance would ultimately benefit Venice.
Next, Ottoman Empire originated from Turkey, had a powerful empire in Middle East and North Africa. It wanted to expand into Europe. As a result, it captured many of Venice’s coastal territories. Trade was disrupted as Ottomans controlled many sea ports. This will reduce Venetian trade, the lifeline of her economy.
Lastly, The League of Cambrai. Venice's growing influence in the region made it unpopular among the various mainland states. They wanted to recapture the Venetian territories. A military alliance against Venice known as the League of Cambrai was formed. Most major powers in Europe like Spain, Hungary and France were involved. Venetian mercenary army was badly defeated so many territories fell to members of the League. As a result, the cost of the wars drained and weakened Venice's resources.
In conclusion, Venice had to spend large amounts of resources and wealth to build up its military thus this divert Venice attention away from trade.
By: Krystal Wong (8) of Class 4 Aspire 2010
Dear Krystal
The examples are great. The impact statement is fine but you may want to elaborate further by explaining how by diverting resources away from trade may affect the economic development of venice.
I agree that foreign talent is a factor in the decilne of Venice but there are other factors such as
The Ottoman Empire originated in Turkey and had a powerful empire in the Middle East and North Africa. It wanted to expand into Europe, as a result, it captured many of Venice's coastal territories. Trade was disrupted as the Ottomans controlled many sea ports. This reduced Venetian trade and the lifeline of her economy.
The League of Cambrai's growing influence in Europe increased jealousy amongst some European countries. In 1508, the League of Cambrai consisted of Spain, France and Hungary. The worked together to reduce the power of Venice and defeated the Venetian army. The cost of the wars drained and weakened Venice's resources. As a result, Venice had to spend large amounts of resources to build up its military. This diverted Venince's attention away from trade, resulting in a loss in trade investments.
New sea routes were discovered when the Portugese, under Vasco da Gama, sailed around the Cape of Good Hope in Africa and found a new sea route from India to the East. This new sea route allowed them to bypass Venice-controlled territories. This destroyed Venice's trade monopoly in spices and they no longer were the main sea power in Europe. New trade rivals emerged when the East India Company (EIC) was set up in 1600 and the Dutch East India Company (VOC) in 1602. Both companies introduced a new method of trading. The old method required traders to receive a permit from the government so as to trade freely in Venice and Portugal and trade at their own expenses. However, EIC and VOC were big companies with shareholders. They were well organised and had more resources. They were also subsidised and backed by the government. Failure to adapt to the new economic stratigies weakened the Venetians which reduced her competitiveness in the industry. As a result, rise of new European powers such as the Portugese and the Dutch posed severe competiton to Venice's position as a maritime power especially her monopoly of the lucrative spice trade.
Rotation of officers meant that there were no permanent competent leaders. Nicolo de Canal and Antonio Grimani who were execellent ambassador and financeier respectively were incompetent in military warfare and faced disastrous defeat from the Ottomans and hence Venice became weak and vulnerable to external threats. To finance wars, there was suspension on salary and higher taxes in trade. This created unhappiness amongst civil servants and the poor. The Senate became dominant and candidates bribed the poor to vote for them. A group of nobels began to dominate government and bribery became part of life. This led to corruption and inefficiency in the government. Venice had no conscription to navy and over-relied on mercenaries. With other states being able to pay mercenaries better and had stronger citizens' army, Venice became weakened as more and more mercenaries preferred to fight for other states. Vulnurability to external threats increased due to this. As a result, the political system was exposed to corruption and abuse of power. This led to the population losing trust in the government and increased the vulnerability from external threats.
The rich indulged in fine living with countless parades and celebrations. The year-end party lasted for weeks and the poor and rich involved in gambling, like the Carnevale, which could last as long as 6 months.In the 16th century, the government could not find volunteers to serve in the navy. As a result, Venetians are easily distracted from daily duties and productive work and commitment level of people reduced drastically.
Jacqueline Koh (7)
4 Aspire
Dear Jacqueline
Very good work. Your examples for all factors are great. But I need you to focus on foreign threat only and as for the impact statement for the latter, why foreign threat led to the decline of Venice. Any input on this???
I agree that foreign threats was a factor that led to the decline of Venice.
The first factor is involvement in the mainland . At the beginning of the 15th century , political developments in Europe forced the Venetian government to turn its attention to controlling the nearby main land territories. Venice needed to secure and maintain their supply of resources for the city-state's growing population and expanding empire. Also, in order to protect its territories and commercial interests , they took advantage of the rivalry among the mainland states.Venice tried to achieve balance of power by offering to help one side fight against each other. For example, Venice created alliances with large states such as the feuding France and Spain when the occasion suited its interest. However this means that Venice had poor relationship with the larger states as Venice was constantly switching alliances. Venice was also under risk of being attacked if the negotiations were to fail. To deal with this, Venice had to equip themselves with strong army which could only be done by recruiting mercenaries to fight its wars given Venice's small population.The rivalry among the mainland states also made the overland trade route unsafe.Venetians were concerned as they depended on the route for trade. As a result, this would mean that Venice was taking a risk by constantly changing its alliance.Any failed negotiations could lead to the larger states attacking Venice , Thus Destroying Venice. Trade was also interrupted and this might cause a fall in trade, which might eventually lead to decrease in income earned.
From around the 13th century, the Ottoman Empire began expanding its influence from the middle east into Europe. In the 15th century , Genoa was under the Ottoman empire.Venice knew that they could not face the large ottoman armies on their own as they were drained by their involvement in the mainland. Thus, the gave up some of their smaller ans less important territories to avoid trouble. The Venetians fought hard to maintain their control of the Adriatic Sea,Venice had to use its galleys to fight off attacks by the Ottomans, As a result, this disrupted its use if galleys for trading purposes.
The League of Cambria was made , due to the rising unpopularity among the various mainland states. They wanted to recapture the Venetian territories. The League of Cambria consists of large powers in Europe , such as Spain Hungary and France.The League managed to defeat the Venetian mercenary army.As a result , many of Venice's territories fell into the members of the League. The wars between the League and Venice also drained large amount of money from Venice.
In conclusion, Political developments in the mainland states and the rise of the empire poses serious challenges to Venice. Venice had to spent large amounts of money, supplies to strengthen its armies.Venice was also in a situation where there were more money being used than earned. Thus Venice was drained of territories, money,trade and resources.
By Constance (2) 4Aspire 2010
I agree that foreign threats is a factor in the decline of Venice.
Firstly, the involvement in the mainland forced the Venetian government to turn its attention to controlling the nearby mainland territories. As these mainland territories had all along been supplying Venice with essential resources like food and water, Venice needed to secure and maintain their supply of resources for the city-state's growing population and expanding industries. Venice therefore took advantage of the rivalry among the mainland states and achieve balance of power by offering to help one fight against the other. However, Venice's act of switching alliances with different opposing states proved that it has constantly treading on fragile relations with the larger states. It also meant that Venice could come under attack should negotiations fail. This situation put the Venetians at high risk as there was no certainty which alliance would ultimately benefit Venice.
The Ottoman Empire originated from Turkey & had a powerful empire in Middle East and North Africa. It wanted to expand into Europe . As a result, it captured many of Venice’s coastal territories.Trade was disrupted as Ottomans controlled many sea ports. This will reduce Venetian trade, the lifeline of her economy. Besides, Venice was forced to give up some of its less important territories to avoid further losses. Sea campaigns were also started, and as a result, these wars drained Venice's resources and manpower.
As for the League of Cambrai, growing influence in Europe increase jealousy among some European countries. In 1508, the League of Cambrai consisted of Spain, France and Hungary. They worked together to reduce the power of Venice and defeated the Venetian army. The cost of the wars drained and weakened Venice's resources. Venice had to raise taxes to finance the employment of its mercenary armies as well as to replenish its supply of weapons. As a result, the cost of the wars was drained and it weakened Venice’s resources.
All in all, foreign threat has clearly shown that venice had to spend large amounts of resources and wealth to build up its military – this divert Venice attention away from trade.
I agree that foreign threat is a factor that caused the decline of Venice.
Firstly, the involvement in the mainland. Political developments in Europe forced the Venetian government to turn its attention to controlling the nearby mainland territories. Venice needed to secure and maintain their supply of resources from the mainland territories for the city-state’s growing population and expanding industries. The rivalry among the mainland states made the overland trade route unsafe. As a result, the trade and revenue of Venice was affected as they depended on these commercial crossroads for trade and wealth.
Secondly, the Ottoman Empire. Ottoman Empire originated from Turkey and had a powerful empire in Middle East and North Africa. It wanted to expand into Europe.
Venice was forced to give up some of its less important ports. Venetians were left to fight on their own against the Ottomans due to resentment that Venice faced from the European states. As a result, it captured many of Venice’s coastal territories. Trade was disrupted as Ottomans controlled many sea ports. This will reduce Venetian trade, the lifeline of her economy.
Lastly, the League of Cambrai. Growing influence in Europe increase jealousy among some European countries. In 1508, military alliance known as League of Cambrai was formed. It consisted of Spain, Hungary and France. The League of Cambrai reduced the power of Venice. They defeated a Venetian army. As a result, many of its territories fell to members of the League. In addition, the cost of the wars drained and weakened Venice’s resources.
In conclusion, I think foreign threats is an important factor that caused the decline of Venice. As a result of foreign threats, Venice had to spend large amounts of resources and wealth to build up its military. This diverts Venice attention away from trade which affects its revenue.
Dear Constance,Jacq,Cheryl
Constance - very good examples. For the impact statement, may want to add in why this factor would affect trade and economic development. In addition, use 'as a result' instead of 'in conclusion'
Jacq - only the impact statement need to be improved by adding the fact that diverting resources away from trade might lead to inefficiency the way trade was being carried out. Hence Venice would lost her advantage to her trade rivals and thereby to less revenue collected.
Cheryl - same comment as Jacq. In addition, avoid the phrase 'in conclusion' as the beginning statement of your impact statement. Used 'as a result/hence/therefore'
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