The textile industry was the automobile industry of the Middle Ages
The textile industry in the Middle Ages functioned similarly to the automobile industry in the modern era, serving as a key driver of economic growth and innovation. This sector was pivotal in shaping social and economic structures, influencing trade, labor, and even daily life during that time. It was a primary source of employment and facilitated the development of towns and markets.
Barbara W. Tuchman's book, "A Distant Mirror: The Calamitous 14th Century," highlights how the advancements and economic significance of the textile industry were paramount in transforming societies. The parallels drawn between these two industries emphasize the vital role textiles played in the Middle Ages, just as automobiles have in our contemporary world.