Foundations of Venetian Naval Strategy from Pietro II Orseolo to the Battle of Zonchio
1000 – 1500
by John E. Dotson
from Viator: Medieval and Renaissance Studies v. 32 (2001)
For Venetians during the Middle Ages the sea was life. The prosperity, the very existence, of the Republic depended upon seaborne commerce. That commerce was inherently peaceful and prospered best in times of peace and stability. It was also competitive and aroused passions of jealousy and greed. Venetian commerce needed to be protected from predators, and Venetians, too, were often willing to use force to extend the scope of, and gain advantage for, their trade. War and trade were very often closely interlinked activities.
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