On the contrary, it was diffused to a remarkable degree among the hard-working artisans and handicraftsmen of the great cities.
For the principle of association had not confined itself exclusively to politics and trade.

Besides the numerous guilds by which citizenship was acquired in the various cities, were many other societies for mutual improvement, support, or recreation.

The great secret, architectural or masonic brotherhood of Germany, that league to which the artistic and patient completion of the magnificent works of Gothic architecture in the middle ages is mainly to be attributed, had its branches in nether Germany, and explains the presence of so many splendid and elaborately finished churches in the provinces.

There were also military sodalities of musketeers, cross-bowmen, archers, swordsmen in every town.

Once a year these clubs kept holiday, choosing a king, who was selected for his prowess and skill in the use of various weapons.