The term bourgeoisie was first known in medieval western Europe as the occupants of walled cities (boroughs). The bourgeoisie occupied the area in the caste system of middle class. Eventually the term was adopted by other nations of Europe to refer to the middle class as well. The middle class was not highly visible until the high middle ages (1050-1300). This is because medieval cities were beginning to place a high focus on trade at the beginning of the high middle ages. This allowed for the growth of towns into bustling centers of commerce. Eventually the bourgeoisie, or artisans and merchants, developed their own associations, such as the earlier Guild of Merchants, to protect their interests and help fight against the feudal system.
