Here is a general sequence of events in the development of the Renaissance. Which statement BEST completes the second event? Event 1: Italy's location encouraged trade. Event 2: Event 3: Italy's families became art patrons. A. Italian merchants helped artists and writers study in Muslim lands. B. Italian merchants gained wealth and political power. C. The Renaissance spread beyond Italy to other countries in Europe. D. New Italian city-states emerged to sponsor the Renaissance.