Bankers to the Crown

The book explores Edward I of England's innovative financial strategies during the thirteenth century, particularly his reliance on Italian merchant-bankers to address the inadequacies of traditional revenue sources. Faced with mounting expenses for military and administrative needs, Edward implemented duties on wool and leather and increased direct taxation. However, issues with slow and irregular collection prompted him to establish a crucial partnership with the Societas Riccardorum de Luka, ensuring a steady cash flow for his reign.