What led to the beginning of the renaissance?

Ok So The Renaissance began in Italy in the 14th century. The number one cause was money. Italy benefited richly from trade links established after the crusades. New silver mines were pumping money into the economy facilitating trade. The urban wealthy could afford to patronize intellectual hobbies. In contrast, Northern Europe received the Renaissance rather late. They also finished late. By the time Renaissance literature was flourishing in England, 200 years after Petrarch, the Italians were already building Baroque cathedrals.