Preliminary Programme

The aim of the paper is to analyse the contrasts ans parallels between economic ties and political boundaries in the late Middle Ages. I will study the case of the merchant relationships between Castile and Valencia, in the Crown of Aragon, during the XVth century. These relationships were constantly characterized, on the one hand, by the continuity of product exchanges and the presence of Castilian merchants in the city of Valencia; on the other hand, by the existence of fiscal pressures and episodical alterations due to political and military reasons. In this context, for example, merchants were able to negotiate with fiscal authorities in order to obtain advantages and to keep the frontiers opened to their products. (Show less)

In most religions women have experienced and experience unequal treatment in terms of their rights and dignity with respect to men with whom they share creed and religious practices. This was the case in the Late Middle Ages and in a specific religion, Roman Catholic Christianity, on which the present work is concerned. At that time women had limited rights as members of the Christian Church like in society, economy or family to which they belonged. A comparative study between rules and affidavits will allow us to know to what extent women complied with the established regulations. We can also see if they were able or not to find new ways outside the law to enjoy a situation similar to the male brothers. (Show less)

After the conquest of the Iberian South Peninsula by the Christian realms, the different kings deal with the necessity of achieving an effective control of the territory. As a result, they entrust large parcels of land to noblemen, military orders and cities for its control. These cities rule a huge hinterland where the obtein human and material resources. This talk is intend to offer some keys in order to develope the study of that issue in western Andalusia. (Show less)