What practice was not in place in italy, which allowed city-states to develop there before the rest of europe?
a. religion
b. feudalism
c. trade
d. agriculture

The correct aswer is B.

Between the 12th and 13th centuries, Italy was vastly different from feudal Europe. It was not a unified state, but a mixture of cultural and political elements.

The separation from their feudal overlords happened in the late 12th century and 13th century, during the Investiture Controversy between the Pope and the Holy Roman Emperor. After Italian towns exited from feudalism, their society was based on merchants and commerce.