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2.7 Comparison in Trade from 1200-1450

9 min readjanuary 3, 2023

K

Katie Moore

Riya Patel

Riya Patel

K

Katie Moore

Riya Patel

Riya Patel

Comparison of Economic Exchange

Similarities and Differences Amongst All Trade Networks

There are a number of similarities and differences between various trade networks throughout history. Some examples of trade networks include the , the , and the .

Silk Road

The was a network of trade routes that stretched from East Asia to the Mediterranean. It was an important trade network during the Middle Ages, and it played a crucial role in the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between the East and the West. The was named after the silk that was one of the most valuable and sought-after commodities traded along these routes.

The consisted of a series of land-based routes that connected China to the Mediterranean through Central Asia and the Middle East. These routes passed through some of the most treacherous and inhospitable regions in the world, including the , the , and the . Despite the challenges, the remained an important trade route for over two thousand years.

Along the , merchants and traders exchanged a wide range of goods, including silk, spices, , precious stones, and other . The also played a significant role in the transmission of ideas, technologies, and religions, including , , and .

The declined in importance with the rise of sea-based trade routes and the growth of . However, it remains an important symbol of the exchange and interaction between different cultures and societies.

Indian Ocean Trade

The Indian Ocean trade was a maritime trade network that connected the coastal regions of the Indian Ocean. It was an important trade network during the Middle Ages, and it played a crucial role in the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

The Indian Ocean trade was characterized by a diverse group of traders and merchants, including , , , and . These traders exchanged a wide range of goods, including spices, , precious stones, and other . The Indian Ocean trade was also an important source of , including , , and .

The Indian Ocean trade was facilitated by the , which allowed ships to sail in a circular pattern around the ocean. This trade network was dominated by the Arab and Indian traders, who controlled the production and trade of spices, which were highly prized in Europe and the Middle East.

The Indian Ocean trade declined in importance with the rise of sea-based trade routes and the growth of . However, it remains an important symbol of the exchange and interaction between different cultures and societies.

Trans-Saharan Trade

The Trans-Saharan trade was a land-based trade network that stretched across the Sahara Desert. It was an important trade network during the Middle Ages, and it played a crucial role in the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between West Africa and the Mediterranean.

The Trans-Saharan trade was dominated by the Arab and , who exchanged a wide range of goods, including , , , and other . The Trans-Saharan trade was also an important source of , including giraffes, lions, and .

The Trans-Saharan trade was facilitated by the use of , which were able to withstand the harsh desert conditions. This trade network was also an important channel for the transmission of and other religions.

The Trans-Saharan trade declined in importance with the rise of sea-based trade routes and the growth of . However, it remains an important symbol of the exchange and interaction between different cultures and societies.

Here are some similarities and differences between these trade networks:

Similarities:

  • All of these trade networks were based on the exchange of goods and resources between different regions or countries.
  • They all played a role in the economic development of the regions they connected.
  • They facilitated the exchange of ideas, cultures, and technologies between the different regions they connected.

Differences:

  • The goods traded varied between the different trade networks. For example, the was known for the trade of silk, spices, and precious metals, while the was known for the trade of spices, , and luxury goods.
  • The geographical regions connected by the trade networks differed. The connected Asia, Europe, and Africa, while the connected Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, and East Asia.
  • The means of transportation and communication used differed between the trade networks. For example, the relied on land-based transportation such as , while the relied on sea-based transportation such as ships.
  • The political and economic context in which the trade networks operated differed. For example, the was at times controlled by powerful states or empires, while the operated in a more decentralized manner.

Similarities and Differences among various trade networks:

Similarities:

  • All respective trade networks demonstrated an exchange of cultural, technological, and biological diffusion within and between various societies

    • Ex. along the Silk Roads, Hinduism in the Indian Ocean, in trans-Saharan routes

  • Commercial improvement led to an increase in the volume of trade among these networks which expanded trade networks

  • Trade networks promoted new trading cities

  • Innovations in pre-existing transport and commercial technologies impacted the growth of trade. Innovations such as the , , and the development of

Differences:

  • The types of exports that these trade networks had were significantly different

    • Silk Roads traded while Indian Ocean trade common goods in bulk

  • The trade networks produced items that were symbolic to their respective regions

  • Changes in trade routes were a result of increasing productive capacity, with the vital role of social and gender structures and environmental occurrences. 

    • The need for luxury goods increased in Afro-Eurasia

    • , Persian, and Indian merchants expanded the supply of and

    • expanded in China

🎥Watch: WHAP -CCOT-silk, sea, and sand roads

🎥Watch: WHAP -CCOT-indian ocean exchange network

Similarities and Differences Among the Silk Road and Indian Ocean Trade

The and the Indian Ocean trade were two major trade networks that flourished during the Middle Ages. These two networks connected Asia, Europe, and Africa, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures.

There are some similarities between the and the Indian Ocean trade:

  1. Both networks were extensive and connected different regions of the world.

  2. Both networks facilitated the exchange of a wide range of goods, including silk, spices, , and other .

  3. Both networks served as channels for the transmission of ideas, technologies, and religions.

  4. Both networks were important for the cultural exchange and interaction between different societies.

However, there are also some significant differences between the and the Indian Ocean trade:

  1. The was a land-based network of trade routes that stretched from East Asia to the Mediterranean. The Indian Ocean trade, on the other hand, was a maritime network of trade routes that connected the coastal regions of the Indian Ocean.

  2. The was dominated by the , who controlled the production and trade of silk. The Indian Ocean trade, on the other hand, was characterized by a more diverse group of traders and merchants, including , , , and .

  3. The was more vulnerable to , while the Indian Ocean trade was relatively safer due to the presence of powerful like the and the .

  4. The played a more significant role in the transmission of ideas and religions, while the Indian Ocean trade was more focused on the exchange of goods.

Similarities and Differences Among the Trans-Saharan Trade and Indian Ocean Trade

The Trans-Saharan trade and the Indian Ocean trade were two major trade networks that flourished during the Middle Ages. These two networks connected Africa and Asia, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures.

There are some similarities between the Trans-Saharan trade and the Indian Ocean trade:

  1. Both networks were extensive and connected different regions of the world.

  2. Both networks facilitated the exchange of a wide range of goods, including , , , and other .

  3. Both networks served as channels for the transmission of ideas, technologies, and religions.

  4. Both networks were important for the cultural exchange and interaction between different societies.

However, there are also some significant differences between the Trans-Saharan trade and the Indian Ocean trade:

  1. The Trans-Saharan trade was a land-based network of trade routes that stretched across the Sahara Desert. The Indian Ocean trade, on the other hand, was a maritime network of trade routes that connected the coastal regions of the Indian Ocean.

  2. The Trans-Saharan trade was dominated by the Arab and , while the Indian Ocean trade was characterized by a more diverse group of traders and merchants, including , , , and .

  3. The Trans-Saharan trade was more vulnerable to raids and attacks by bandits, while the Indian Ocean trade was relatively safer due to the presence of powerful like the and the .

  4. The Trans-Saharan trade played a more significant role in the transmission of and other religions, while the Indian Ocean trade was more focused on the exchange of goods.

Similarities and Differences Among the Silk Road and Trans-Saharan Trade

The and the Trans-Saharan trade were two major trade networks that flourished during the Middle Ages. These two networks connected Asia, Europe, and Africa, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures.

There are some similarities between the and the Trans-Saharan trade:

  1. Both networks were extensive and connected different regions of the world.

  2. Both networks facilitated the exchange of a wide range of goods, including silk, spices, , and other .

  3. Both networks served as channels for the transmission of ideas, technologies, and religions.

  4. Both networks were important for the cultural exchange and interaction between different societies.

However, there are also some significant differences between the and the Trans-Saharan trade:

  1. The was a land-based network of trade routes that stretched from East Asia to the Mediterranean. The Trans-Saharan trade, on the other hand, was a land-based network of trade routes that stretched across the Sahara Desert.

  2. The was dominated by the , who controlled the production and trade of silk. The Trans-Saharan trade, on the other hand, was dominated by the Arab and .

  3. The was more vulnerable to raids and attacks by bandits, while the Trans-Saharan trade was more vulnerable to attacks by such as lions and hyenas.

  4. The played a more significant role in the transmission of ideas and religions, while the Trans-Saharan trade played a more significant role in the transmission of and other religions.


-----

Key Terms to Review (34)

Arabs

: Arabs are an ethnic group primarily living in the Arab world, which is composed of 22 countries stretching across the Middle East and North Africa. They share common linguistic, cultural, political, and social traditions.

Bandits and Raids

: Bandits are criminals who steal by force or threat, often operating in groups. Raids refer to sudden attacks carried out with the intention to steal or destroy something.

Berber Traders

: The Berbers are an ethnic group indigenous to North Africa who historically played a crucial role in trans-Saharan trade routes.

Buddhism

: Buddhism is a nontheistic religion or philosophy that encompasses a variety of traditions, beliefs and spiritual practices largely based on teachings attributed to Gautama Buddha. It emphasizes personal spiritual development, mindfulness, and understanding the true nature of life.

Camels

: Camels are large, desert-dwelling mammals that have been used for centuries as a mode of transportation and for carrying goods across long distances, especially in arid regions.

Caravanserai

: A caravanserai was a roadside inn where travelers (caravaners) could rest and recover from the day's journey. They were commonly found along the Silk Road in Central Asia and the Middle East during medieval times.

Chinese

: The term "Chinese" refers to people originating from China or identifying with Chinese culture. China's civilization is one of the world's oldest with a complex history involving dynastic rule such as Han Dynasty, Tang Dynasty and Qing Dynasty.

Christianity

: Christianity is a monotheistic religion based on the teachings of Jesus Christ as presented in the New Testament of the Bible. It emphasizes concepts such as love for all people, forgiveness of sins through faith in Jesus Christ, and eternal life after death.

Desert Predators

: Desert predators are carnivorous animals that live and hunt in desert environments. They have adapted to survive in harsh conditions with extreme temperatures and limited water sources.

Elephants

: Elephants are large mammals from the family Elephantidae and the order Proboscidea. There are three existing species - Asian elephant, African bush elephant, and African forest elephant.

European Colonialism

: European colonialism refers to the period from the 15th to the mid-20th century when several European powers established colonies in Asia, Africa, and the Americas. This was driven by a desire for new trade routes, resources, and territories.

Exotic animals and plants

: These are species of flora and fauna that are not native to a specific location or region. They are often introduced by humans, either intentionally or accidentally.

Forms of Credit

: These are various methods or ways that allow consumers to purchase goods or services before payment, based on the trust that payment will be made in the future.

Gobi Desert

: The Gobi Desert is a vast, arid region in northern China and southern Mongolia. It's known for its dunes, mountains and rare animals like snow leopards and Bactrian camels.

Gold

: A yellow precious metal that is valued for its rarity, malleability, and luster.

Himalayas

: The Himalayas are a mountain range in Asia separating the plains of the Indian subcontinent from the Tibetan Plateau. They house many of Earth's highest peaks including Mount Everest.

Indian Ocean Trade Network

: A sea-based trade route that connected East Africa, Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. It facilitated the exchange of goods like spices, textiles, and precious stones during ancient times.

Indians

: In the context of AP World History, "Indians" refers to the people native to the Indian subcontinent, which includes present-day India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and parts of other surrounding countries. They have a rich history marked by various empires like Maurya, Gupta and Mughal Empire.

Islam

: Islam is a monotheistic religion that originated in the 7th century CE in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It was founded by Prophet Muhammad and its followers are called Muslims. The teachings of Islam are based on the Quran, which Muslims believe to be the word of God.

Ivory

: A hard, white material from the tusks and teeth of animals, especially elephants. It is often carved into ornaments or tools.

Luxury Items

: Luxury items are goods that are not necessary for survival but enhance one's quality of life or social status. They are often expensive and high-quality, ranging from jewelry to fine wines to designer clothing.

Money Economies

: A money economy is a system where goods and services are directly exchanged for currency or coins, rather than through barter.

Monsoon Winds

: Seasonal winds in South Asia that blow from the southwest bringing heavy rainfall during summer months (wet monsoon), while winds blowing from northeast during winter months bring dry weather (dry monsoon).

Naval Powers

: Countries with strong naval forces capable of controlling sea routes for trade, exploration, warfare etc., often indicating their global influence.

Persians

: Persians are an ethnic group from Iran (formerly known as Persia). They share a common cultural system and speak the Persian language.

Porcelains for export

: Porcelain is a type of ceramic material made by heating materials to high temperatures. When we talk about porcelains for export it refers to porcelain products that were manufactured specifically with the intention to be sold abroad.

Production of Iron & Steel

: The process of extracting iron from ore and refining it into steel, a stronger and more versatile metal. This was a key aspect of the Industrial Revolution.

Rhinoceroses

: Rhinoceroses, often simply called rhinos, are large, herbivorous mammals identified by their characteristic horned snouts. There are five species of rhinos.

Salt

: In the context of AP World History, salt refers to a valuable commodity that was traded globally in ancient times. It was used for preserving food and enhancing flavor.

Silk Road

: The Silk Road was a network of trade routes connecting the East and West, extending from the Korean peninsula and Japan to the Mediterranean Sea during various periods of time, primarily the Han dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD) in China.

Taklamakan Desert

: The Taklamakan Desert is located in northwest China. It is one of the world's largest sandy deserts, noted for its moving sand dunes and xerophytic shrubs.

Textiles

: Textiles refer to materials produced by weaving, knitting, or felting. These materials can be used to make clothing, bags, towels, bedsheets etc.

Trans-Saharan Trade Network

: This was a major trade route across the Sahara desert that connected North Africa with sub-Saharan Africa during ancient times. Goods like gold, salt, slaves were traded along this network.

Tropical Fruits

: These are fruits that grow in tropical climates, which are regions of the world located near the equator. Examples include bananas, pineapples, and mangoes.

2.7 Comparison in Trade from 1200-1450

9 min readjanuary 3, 2023

K

Katie Moore

Riya Patel

Riya Patel

K

Katie Moore

Riya Patel

Riya Patel

Comparison of Economic Exchange

Similarities and Differences Amongst All Trade Networks

There are a number of similarities and differences between various trade networks throughout history. Some examples of trade networks include the , the , and the .

Silk Road

The was a network of trade routes that stretched from East Asia to the Mediterranean. It was an important trade network during the Middle Ages, and it played a crucial role in the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between the East and the West. The was named after the silk that was one of the most valuable and sought-after commodities traded along these routes.

The consisted of a series of land-based routes that connected China to the Mediterranean through Central Asia and the Middle East. These routes passed through some of the most treacherous and inhospitable regions in the world, including the , the , and the . Despite the challenges, the remained an important trade route for over two thousand years.

Along the , merchants and traders exchanged a wide range of goods, including silk, spices, , precious stones, and other . The also played a significant role in the transmission of ideas, technologies, and religions, including , , and .

The declined in importance with the rise of sea-based trade routes and the growth of . However, it remains an important symbol of the exchange and interaction between different cultures and societies.

Indian Ocean Trade

The Indian Ocean trade was a maritime trade network that connected the coastal regions of the Indian Ocean. It was an important trade network during the Middle Ages, and it played a crucial role in the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

The Indian Ocean trade was characterized by a diverse group of traders and merchants, including , , , and . These traders exchanged a wide range of goods, including spices, , precious stones, and other . The Indian Ocean trade was also an important source of , including , , and .

The Indian Ocean trade was facilitated by the , which allowed ships to sail in a circular pattern around the ocean. This trade network was dominated by the Arab and Indian traders, who controlled the production and trade of spices, which were highly prized in Europe and the Middle East.

The Indian Ocean trade declined in importance with the rise of sea-based trade routes and the growth of . However, it remains an important symbol of the exchange and interaction between different cultures and societies.

Trans-Saharan Trade

The Trans-Saharan trade was a land-based trade network that stretched across the Sahara Desert. It was an important trade network during the Middle Ages, and it played a crucial role in the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between West Africa and the Mediterranean.

The Trans-Saharan trade was dominated by the Arab and , who exchanged a wide range of goods, including , , , and other . The Trans-Saharan trade was also an important source of , including giraffes, lions, and .

The Trans-Saharan trade was facilitated by the use of , which were able to withstand the harsh desert conditions. This trade network was also an important channel for the transmission of and other religions.

The Trans-Saharan trade declined in importance with the rise of sea-based trade routes and the growth of . However, it remains an important symbol of the exchange and interaction between different cultures and societies.

Here are some similarities and differences between these trade networks:

Similarities:

  • All of these trade networks were based on the exchange of goods and resources between different regions or countries.
  • They all played a role in the economic development of the regions they connected.
  • They facilitated the exchange of ideas, cultures, and technologies between the different regions they connected.

Differences:

  • The goods traded varied between the different trade networks. For example, the was known for the trade of silk, spices, and precious metals, while the was known for the trade of spices, , and luxury goods.
  • The geographical regions connected by the trade networks differed. The connected Asia, Europe, and Africa, while the connected Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, and East Asia.
  • The means of transportation and communication used differed between the trade networks. For example, the relied on land-based transportation such as , while the relied on sea-based transportation such as ships.
  • The political and economic context in which the trade networks operated differed. For example, the was at times controlled by powerful states or empires, while the operated in a more decentralized manner.

Similarities and Differences among various trade networks:

Similarities:

  • All respective trade networks demonstrated an exchange of cultural, technological, and biological diffusion within and between various societies

    • Ex. along the Silk Roads, Hinduism in the Indian Ocean, in trans-Saharan routes

  • Commercial improvement led to an increase in the volume of trade among these networks which expanded trade networks

  • Trade networks promoted new trading cities

  • Innovations in pre-existing transport and commercial technologies impacted the growth of trade. Innovations such as the , , and the development of

Differences:

  • The types of exports that these trade networks had were significantly different

    • Silk Roads traded while Indian Ocean trade common goods in bulk

  • The trade networks produced items that were symbolic to their respective regions

  • Changes in trade routes were a result of increasing productive capacity, with the vital role of social and gender structures and environmental occurrences. 

    • The need for luxury goods increased in Afro-Eurasia

    • , Persian, and Indian merchants expanded the supply of and

    • expanded in China

🎥Watch: WHAP -CCOT-silk, sea, and sand roads

🎥Watch: WHAP -CCOT-indian ocean exchange network

Similarities and Differences Among the Silk Road and Indian Ocean Trade

The and the Indian Ocean trade were two major trade networks that flourished during the Middle Ages. These two networks connected Asia, Europe, and Africa, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures.

There are some similarities between the and the Indian Ocean trade:

  1. Both networks were extensive and connected different regions of the world.

  2. Both networks facilitated the exchange of a wide range of goods, including silk, spices, , and other .

  3. Both networks served as channels for the transmission of ideas, technologies, and religions.

  4. Both networks were important for the cultural exchange and interaction between different societies.

However, there are also some significant differences between the and the Indian Ocean trade:

  1. The was a land-based network of trade routes that stretched from East Asia to the Mediterranean. The Indian Ocean trade, on the other hand, was a maritime network of trade routes that connected the coastal regions of the Indian Ocean.

  2. The was dominated by the , who controlled the production and trade of silk. The Indian Ocean trade, on the other hand, was characterized by a more diverse group of traders and merchants, including , , , and .

  3. The was more vulnerable to , while the Indian Ocean trade was relatively safer due to the presence of powerful like the and the .

  4. The played a more significant role in the transmission of ideas and religions, while the Indian Ocean trade was more focused on the exchange of goods.

Similarities and Differences Among the Trans-Saharan Trade and Indian Ocean Trade

The Trans-Saharan trade and the Indian Ocean trade were two major trade networks that flourished during the Middle Ages. These two networks connected Africa and Asia, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures.

There are some similarities between the Trans-Saharan trade and the Indian Ocean trade:

  1. Both networks were extensive and connected different regions of the world.

  2. Both networks facilitated the exchange of a wide range of goods, including , , , and other .

  3. Both networks served as channels for the transmission of ideas, technologies, and religions.

  4. Both networks were important for the cultural exchange and interaction between different societies.

However, there are also some significant differences between the Trans-Saharan trade and the Indian Ocean trade:

  1. The Trans-Saharan trade was a land-based network of trade routes that stretched across the Sahara Desert. The Indian Ocean trade, on the other hand, was a maritime network of trade routes that connected the coastal regions of the Indian Ocean.

  2. The Trans-Saharan trade was dominated by the Arab and , while the Indian Ocean trade was characterized by a more diverse group of traders and merchants, including , , , and .

  3. The Trans-Saharan trade was more vulnerable to raids and attacks by bandits, while the Indian Ocean trade was relatively safer due to the presence of powerful like the and the .

  4. The Trans-Saharan trade played a more significant role in the transmission of and other religions, while the Indian Ocean trade was more focused on the exchange of goods.

Similarities and Differences Among the Silk Road and Trans-Saharan Trade

The and the Trans-Saharan trade were two major trade networks that flourished during the Middle Ages. These two networks connected Asia, Europe, and Africa, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures.

There are some similarities between the and the Trans-Saharan trade:

  1. Both networks were extensive and connected different regions of the world.

  2. Both networks facilitated the exchange of a wide range of goods, including silk, spices, , and other .

  3. Both networks served as channels for the transmission of ideas, technologies, and religions.

  4. Both networks were important for the cultural exchange and interaction between different societies.

However, there are also some significant differences between the and the Trans-Saharan trade:

  1. The was a land-based network of trade routes that stretched from East Asia to the Mediterranean. The Trans-Saharan trade, on the other hand, was a land-based network of trade routes that stretched across the Sahara Desert.

  2. The was dominated by the , who controlled the production and trade of silk. The Trans-Saharan trade, on the other hand, was dominated by the Arab and .

  3. The was more vulnerable to raids and attacks by bandits, while the Trans-Saharan trade was more vulnerable to attacks by such as lions and hyenas.

  4. The played a more significant role in the transmission of ideas and religions, while the Trans-Saharan trade played a more significant role in the transmission of and other religions.


-----

Key Terms to Review (34)

Arabs

: Arabs are an ethnic group primarily living in the Arab world, which is composed of 22 countries stretching across the Middle East and North Africa. They share common linguistic, cultural, political, and social traditions.

Bandits and Raids

: Bandits are criminals who steal by force or threat, often operating in groups. Raids refer to sudden attacks carried out with the intention to steal or destroy something.

Berber Traders

: The Berbers are an ethnic group indigenous to North Africa who historically played a crucial role in trans-Saharan trade routes.

Buddhism

: Buddhism is a nontheistic religion or philosophy that encompasses a variety of traditions, beliefs and spiritual practices largely based on teachings attributed to Gautama Buddha. It emphasizes personal spiritual development, mindfulness, and understanding the true nature of life.

Camels

: Camels are large, desert-dwelling mammals that have been used for centuries as a mode of transportation and for carrying goods across long distances, especially in arid regions.

Caravanserai

: A caravanserai was a roadside inn where travelers (caravaners) could rest and recover from the day's journey. They were commonly found along the Silk Road in Central Asia and the Middle East during medieval times.

Chinese

: The term "Chinese" refers to people originating from China or identifying with Chinese culture. China's civilization is one of the world's oldest with a complex history involving dynastic rule such as Han Dynasty, Tang Dynasty and Qing Dynasty.

Christianity

: Christianity is a monotheistic religion based on the teachings of Jesus Christ as presented in the New Testament of the Bible. It emphasizes concepts such as love for all people, forgiveness of sins through faith in Jesus Christ, and eternal life after death.

Desert Predators

: Desert predators are carnivorous animals that live and hunt in desert environments. They have adapted to survive in harsh conditions with extreme temperatures and limited water sources.

Elephants

: Elephants are large mammals from the family Elephantidae and the order Proboscidea. There are three existing species - Asian elephant, African bush elephant, and African forest elephant.

European Colonialism

: European colonialism refers to the period from the 15th to the mid-20th century when several European powers established colonies in Asia, Africa, and the Americas. This was driven by a desire for new trade routes, resources, and territories.

Exotic animals and plants

: These are species of flora and fauna that are not native to a specific location or region. They are often introduced by humans, either intentionally or accidentally.

Forms of Credit

: These are various methods or ways that allow consumers to purchase goods or services before payment, based on the trust that payment will be made in the future.

Gobi Desert

: The Gobi Desert is a vast, arid region in northern China and southern Mongolia. It's known for its dunes, mountains and rare animals like snow leopards and Bactrian camels.

Gold

: A yellow precious metal that is valued for its rarity, malleability, and luster.

Himalayas

: The Himalayas are a mountain range in Asia separating the plains of the Indian subcontinent from the Tibetan Plateau. They house many of Earth's highest peaks including Mount Everest.

Indian Ocean Trade Network

: A sea-based trade route that connected East Africa, Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. It facilitated the exchange of goods like spices, textiles, and precious stones during ancient times.

Indians

: In the context of AP World History, "Indians" refers to the people native to the Indian subcontinent, which includes present-day India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and parts of other surrounding countries. They have a rich history marked by various empires like Maurya, Gupta and Mughal Empire.

Islam

: Islam is a monotheistic religion that originated in the 7th century CE in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It was founded by Prophet Muhammad and its followers are called Muslims. The teachings of Islam are based on the Quran, which Muslims believe to be the word of God.

Ivory

: A hard, white material from the tusks and teeth of animals, especially elephants. It is often carved into ornaments or tools.

Luxury Items

: Luxury items are goods that are not necessary for survival but enhance one's quality of life or social status. They are often expensive and high-quality, ranging from jewelry to fine wines to designer clothing.

Money Economies

: A money economy is a system where goods and services are directly exchanged for currency or coins, rather than through barter.

Monsoon Winds

: Seasonal winds in South Asia that blow from the southwest bringing heavy rainfall during summer months (wet monsoon), while winds blowing from northeast during winter months bring dry weather (dry monsoon).

Naval Powers

: Countries with strong naval forces capable of controlling sea routes for trade, exploration, warfare etc., often indicating their global influence.

Persians

: Persians are an ethnic group from Iran (formerly known as Persia). They share a common cultural system and speak the Persian language.

Porcelains for export

: Porcelain is a type of ceramic material made by heating materials to high temperatures. When we talk about porcelains for export it refers to porcelain products that were manufactured specifically with the intention to be sold abroad.

Production of Iron & Steel

: The process of extracting iron from ore and refining it into steel, a stronger and more versatile metal. This was a key aspect of the Industrial Revolution.

Rhinoceroses

: Rhinoceroses, often simply called rhinos, are large, herbivorous mammals identified by their characteristic horned snouts. There are five species of rhinos.

Salt

: In the context of AP World History, salt refers to a valuable commodity that was traded globally in ancient times. It was used for preserving food and enhancing flavor.

Silk Road

: The Silk Road was a network of trade routes connecting the East and West, extending from the Korean peninsula and Japan to the Mediterranean Sea during various periods of time, primarily the Han dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD) in China.

Taklamakan Desert

: The Taklamakan Desert is located in northwest China. It is one of the world's largest sandy deserts, noted for its moving sand dunes and xerophytic shrubs.

Textiles

: Textiles refer to materials produced by weaving, knitting, or felting. These materials can be used to make clothing, bags, towels, bedsheets etc.

Trans-Saharan Trade Network

: This was a major trade route across the Sahara desert that connected North Africa with sub-Saharan Africa during ancient times. Goods like gold, salt, slaves were traded along this network.

Tropical Fruits

: These are fruits that grow in tropical climates, which are regions of the world located near the equator. Examples include bananas, pineapples, and mangoes.


© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.


© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.