---
title: "Persians — AP World Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Persians were major merchants and cultural connectors on the Silk Roads and Indian Ocean routes from 1200-1450. Learn how AP World tests them in Unit 2."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-world/key-terms/persians"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP World History: Modern"
---

# Persians — AP World Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

The Persians were an ancient civilization originating from the region known as Persia, which is modern-day Iran. They played a crucial role in the development of trade networks and cultural exchange during the period from 1200 to 1450, especially through their influence in the Silk Roads and maritime trade routes that connected various regions.

## Related Study Guides

- [2.7 Comparison in Trade from 1200-1450](/ap-world/unit-2/comparison-trade-1200-1450/study-guide/LN1k1NASEqJtFVzV7EDs)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Silk Road](/ap-world/key-terms/silk-road): An ancient network of trade routes that connected the East and West, facilitating the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas between civilizations.
- Achaemenid Empire: The first Persian Empire, founded by Cyrus the Great, which was known for its architectural achievements and efficient administrative system.
- Cultural Diffusion: The spread of cultural beliefs and social activities from one group to another, often occurring through trade and interactions between different civilizations.

### Key Facts

- During the period from 1200 to 1450, the Persians were instrumental in maintaining and expanding trade routes, particularly along the Silk Road.
- Persian merchants contributed to the exchange of luxury goods such as silk, spices, and precious metals between East and West.
- The Persian Empire's strategic location allowed it to serve as a bridge between Europe, Asia, and Africa, enhancing its role in global trade networks.
- Persian culture had a significant influence on surrounding regions, promoting cultural diffusion through art, religion, and philosophy along trade routes.
- The rise of Islamic empires in the 7th century further integrated Persian influence into the broader economic systems of trade during this period.

### How did the Persians contribute to the development of trade networks during 1200-1450?

The Persians played a vital role in enhancing trade networks by maintaining key sections of the Silk Road. Their empire's vast geography allowed them to connect diverse cultures and facilitate exchanges between merchants from different regions. The Persian contribution included not just physical protection along trade routes but also creating infrastructure that supported trade, such as caravanserais for resting travelers and markets that encouraged commerce.

### Evaluate the impact of Persian cultural practices on other civilizations engaged in trade during this period.

Persian cultural practices significantly impacted neighboring civilizations by introducing innovations in art, architecture, and governance through interactions facilitated by trade. The Persians' rich heritage influenced artistic styles in regions like India and Greece, while their administrative practices informed governance structures in emerging states. Additionally, religious practices such as Zoroastrianism provided a framework for ethical commerce that resonated with traders across cultures.

### Assess how the expansion of Persian trade networks influenced global economic systems in the context of 1200-1450.

The expansion of Persian trade networks during this period fundamentally transformed global economic systems by fostering interconnectedness among diverse regions. Through robust trade routes, Persian merchants not only exchanged goods but also facilitated cultural exchanges that led to technological advancements and shared knowledge. This increased interaction ultimately helped lay the groundwork for future economic systems by creating dependencies between distant markets, highlighting the importance of cooperation among various civilizations in a burgeoning global economy.