The Hansa Towns

"The Hansa Towns" by Helen Zimmern is a historical narrative that explores the Hanseatic League, a powerful medieval trading group of cities in Northern Europe. It tells the story of how the League grew and eventually declined, showing its importance in trade, government, and how society changed in Germany and nearby areas. The book begins by setting the scene, describing Europe as a collection of small, separate territories under feudalism, and emphasizes why the League was needed to combat the disorder of the time. Zimmern presents the League as a groundbreaking organization that not only boosted trade but also encouraged cities to work together to protect themselves. Through various events, including troubles from outside forces and disagreements within, the book prepares readers for a detailed exploration of the League's journey from its beginnings in the 13th century to its eventual downfall. This introduction sets the stage for understanding the complexities of medieval trade and governance.