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If my understanding is correct, Gregor Mendel's discoveries did not require advanced technology; only careful observation. Yes, they were ignored in the 19th century, but changing circumstances is what alternate history is for. :)

What would have happened if basic principles of heredity were discovered and widely known in the medieval or Renaissance periods? Would a greater population be possible due to greater agricultural knowledge? Would European royalty (ESPECIALLY the Habsburgs) be less inbred? Would governments try to implement primitive eugenics programs?

(Well, you can have other places discover such an idea too, but I was thinking about dysfunctional European dynasties when the question occurred to me)

Speculate away!
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