Russian trade and the merchant class of 16th century

Russia-InfoCenter ^ | January 29, 2007 | Olga Pletneva

[eastern]

Russia of 16-17th centuries could be called a trading country, as trade of that time flourished. Despite the fact that Russia remained first of all agrarian, some changes in production occurred, manufacturers mastered new technologies.

The main occupation of working people in Russia in the 16th - the first half of 17th centuries was agriculture with cattle-breeding playing the key role. Livestock products turned to be the second after bread kind of goods going on sale to the domestic market. Apiculture, fishing and hunt were in favour among the crafts connected with agriculture. The craft requiring a considerable level of development appeared to become salt production.

Many other crafts happened to be in use in Russia of the 16th century: ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy, woodworking, production of machinery, various mechanisms and vehicles, building, textile manufacture, pottery, glass-work, leather making, bone processing, and jeweller’s art. The second half of the 16th century witnessed the start of book-printing and first experiments in paper production.

[Freelance Warrior]

Many other crafts happened to be in use in Russia of the 16th century: ... production of machinery, various mechanisms and vehicles...

Machines, vehicles in the 16th century? You must be kidding.

[Fiji Hill]

Russia of 16-17th centuries could be called a trading country, as trade of that time flourished.

While Ivan the Terrible and the Time of Troubles dominated the news of the day, Russia's economy appears to have been quietly evolving and improving.