Grain trade in Early modern Mantua and Venice: The role of Ashkenazi and Italian Jews

Historical fiscal and notarial records reveal that Ashkenazi and Italian Jews in early modern Mantua and Venice played a significant role in the grain trade, challenging traditional perceptions of their economic activities being limited to money-lending and second-hand goods retailing. From the 16th century onward, as banking became less lucrative due to political changes such as the establishment of ghettos, Jews diversified into commodity trading, leveraging strong networks based on trust to engage in interregional trade. This shift was not only economically strategic but also intricately linked to navigating local power structures through formal and informal relationships, highlighting their adaptability and resilience within complex political environments.

Romani, M., & Scuro, R. (2022). Grain trade in Early modern Mantua and Venice: The role of Ashkenazi and Italian Jews. Business History, 66(3), 551–579. https://doi.org/10.1080/00076791.2022.2103543