During the Renaissance, the economic system that dominated European society was mercantilism, characterized by state-controlled trade and the accumulation of wealth through trade surpluses. This period saw the rise of powerful nation-states, which sought to maximize their economic strength by establishing colonies and controlling resources. The wealth generated from trade and exploration fueled the growth of cities and a new merchant class, leading to increased investments in arts and sciences. This environment of economic ambition and wealth creation laid the groundwork for the profound cultural and intellectual transformations associated with the Renaissance, impacting Europe’s social and political structures.