How did milan grow to be an important city-state in italy?
a.)it had a strong, aggressive military force that conquered many cities.
b.) it had an extensive fishing industry that increased its economic position.
c.) it had the largest group of wealthy merchants of all the city-states.
d.) it had the most productive agricultural industry in the area.

Milan grow to be an important city-state in italy Thanks to its military force.

Explanation:

First, Milan was founded by Celts and then conquered by the Roman empire, then Charlemagne, the franks, the Germans and many others. Almost all of the European empires conquered Milan at one point, however also the no-European powers that conquered Europe like the Huns and the Constantines also did it. Thus, Milan became a very strong and resistant state that fought for independence many times or that fought to defend itself from conquest.

Second, after all that war Milan became an independent solid-state that fought many Italian cities including the Vatican states. Making it the unifier of many of the Italian empire.

However, here is a point to considerate. Milan has a lot of merchants and is rich. It is also well-positioned in the geographical specter. Nevertheless, this was not a determining factor to make it as important as it is.

Thank you.