During the high middle ages, how did pilgrimages for the crusades affect the economy? 1) there was a negative effect on the economy because towns had to pay to build more roads for travel. 2)there was a positive effect because those who joined the crusades no longer had to be supported financially. 3) they hurt the economy because people moved away from towns and villages and traveled to other places. 4) they stimulated the economy by increasing trade and creating a need for additional taverns and inns.