shifted from rice-based to coin-based transactions stimulated commerce urban development expanded market economy
Agricultural surplus supported population growth allowed for diversification of labor crafts led to specialization in various industries (textiles, ceramics)
Social hierarchy and merchant class
Four-class system reinforced:
Samurai (warriors)
Farmers
Urbanization and castle-town development created new economic centers attracted merchants artisans fostered
Merchant class rose in prominence benefited from increased trade commerce began accumulating wealth influence challenged traditional social order
Samurai role transitioned from rural landholders to urban bureaucrats increasing reliance on stipends rather than land income altered power dynamics
Wealthy farmers () emerged benefited from agricultural surplus engaged in money-lending local commerce gained economic influence
Social mobility increased with limited opportunities for class movement some merchants adopted samurai lifestyles values blurred class distinctions