The "merchant class" refers to a social group primarily engaged in trade and commerce. This class emerged in various societies, especially during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, when economic activities expanded. Merchants played a crucial role in the economy by buying and selling goods, often connecting different regions and cultures. Members of the merchant class typically accumulated wealth and influence, which allowed them to gain social status. They often formed guilds, such as the Hanseatic League, to protect their interests and regulate trade practices. Over time, the merchant class contributed significantly to the development of modern economies and urban centers.