2. Social Mobility: The bourgeoisie had the opportunity to improve their social status through economic success and education, unlike the rigid class structure of the aristocracy and peasantry.
3. Urbanization: They mostly lived in urban centers and towns, while other estates resided in rural areas or castles.
4. Capital Accumulation: The bourgeoisie accumulated wealth through industrious efforts, entrepreneurship, and investments, while other estates relied on inherited land, wealth, or feudal privileges.
5. Education: Many in the bourgeoisie prioritized education and intellectual pursuits to enhance their business skills and knowledge, valuing literacy, numeracy, and scientific learning.
6. Mercantilism: The bourgeoisie advocated for mercantilist economic policies that aimed to increase exports, accumulate gold and silver, and promote domestic industries, impacting the economy and state policies.
7. Secular Values: Unlike the deeply religious nature of many other estates, the bourgeoisie often embraced secular values, pragmatism, and individualism.
8. Guilds and Trade Organizations: The bourgeoisie played an important role in guilds, trade associations, and merchant organizations to protect their economic interests and negotiate with ruling authorities.
9. Urban Services and Infrastructure: They contributed to the development of cities by providing essential services such as banking, transportation, and infrastructure improvements.
10. Political Influence: In later centuries, the bourgeoisie gained increasing political influence and even challenged the power structures of the aristocracy through revolutions, democratic reforms, and constitutional changes.