Cities such as Genoa and Venice have a long history as important trading centers. Why do you
think so? Explain.

Merchants originated in the Middle Ages.

Explanation:

Traditionally, Genoese and Venetians were good merchants. Trade has developed in this area since the 9th century. Geographical location, the wealth of areas were some of the factors that influenced the development of trade. During the Middle Ages, the Venetian Republic (Venice) was the largest naval power in the Mediterranean. It is a country whose seat was Venice and spread to Croatia, Montenegro, Slovenia, Greece, and Italy(only to parts of these countries, not the whole territory).

Trade activities were at their peak. They traded with everyone and even with the Ottomans, who were the traditional enemies of these cities/states. Countries traded in luxury goods. They achieved great wealth during the Crusades, transported the European army, and thus earned huge money. The contingent of their army also took part in those campaigns, so they gained enormous wealth.

use wikipedia, i think they have this.

the geography of greece

led to limited interactions with other cultures in the mediterranean

was rich in natural resources and led to repeated invasions from the macedonians

encouraged greater contact with peoples on the southern and eastern mediterranean coasts

caused the greeks to eventually relocate eastward under alexander the great