The Contribution of Alien Creditors to the English Economy, 1285–1289

Abstract

This chapter discusses the contribution made to the English economy in 1285–9 by the main groups of alien creditors who appear in the certificates. The trade with England of Italians, Cahorsins, Gascons, Germans and other smaller groups of aliens is analysed in turn and shown to be localised round the principal ports and registries. The question whether it was as dominant as some historians have claimed and the reasons why it began to decline are discussed and related to shortages of bullion on the continent which caused alien merchants to export sterling coin for its silver content, instead of wool.