Franciscans as early capitalists?
Tanja Skambraks combines research, teaching and public relations in her work in order to not only shed light on historical topics such as poverty and economic history from an academic perspective, but also to make them socially relevant and tangible.
Microfinance in the Middle Ages
One focus of Tanja Skambraks' research is the social and economic history of the Middle Ages, in particular poverty and poverty reduction. Here, she has focused on medieval pawnbroking banks (Monti di Pietà). These were founded – which may come as a surprise to many – by the Franciscans in order to be able to grant small loans to those in need.
We in the whole world – the whole world with us
Research arises from exchange. This exchange takes our scientists to research institutions all over the world. It also brings scientists from all over the world to us.
In the latest video, Marie Dücker (Department of American Studies) reports on her experiences at Williams College, Massachusetts, and Columbia University, New York City.