Trade and commerce declined in the early Middle Ages. Which of the following is NOT a reason for the decline of trade in Western Europe?

a. The lack of a strong central government.

b. The best roads were toll roads.

c. The Church passed laws condemning usury.

d. The use of money replaced barter system

Trade and commerce declined in the early Middle Ages, but the phrase which is not a reason for the decline of trade in Western Europe is b) the best roads were toll roads. Toll roads did not exist in the Middle Ages at this time and are a relatively new invention, so for the simple fact that toll roads are a new invention is why b is not a reason for the decline of trade in Western Europe.