Guilds

As the middle class earned economic and political power, merchants and artisans formed an association know as guilds. Merchants were the first to form these, and they started by passing laws and levying taxes. They had a lot of influence over their town.

When the artisans began to resent the merchants who now had a lot of power, they formed their own associations. This cause riots between the two.
Guilds set prices, provided services, and operated schools and hospitals. They provided protection to widows and orphans.
Becoming part of the guild took years of work. Many who wished to join became apprentices or journeymen. Women also could become part when they learned their fathers trade as many did.