Unit 2: Networks of Excange Vocab

Astrolabes

ancient scientific instruments used by astronomers and mariners. Astrolabes could be used to calculate time, measure the altitude of the sun or stars, and determine latitude.

Bills of Exchange

Written agreements (credit slips) that entitled the holder of the bill to a specified payment from a third party. (Like a check.)

Caravans

groups of traveling merchants

Caravanserai

an inn in some Eastern countries with a large courtyard that provides accommodation for caravans

Coinage

Pieces of precious metal as mediums of exchange

Compass

an instrument containing a magnetized pointer that shows the direction of magnetic north and bearings from it.

Dhows

Arab sailing vessels with triangular or lateen sails; strongly influenced European ship design

Entrepots

a port, city, or other center at borders between communities to which goods are brought for import and export, and for collection and distribution.

Guild

in medieval Europe, an association of men, such as merchants, artisans, or professors, who worked in a particular trade and created an organized institution to promote their economic and political interests.

Hanseatic League

an organization of north German and Scandinavian cities for the purpose of establishing a commercial alliance.

Keel

main centerline (backbone/spine) of a vessel or the extension of hull that increases stability in the water

Lateen Sails

Triangular sail that made it possible to sail against the wind; used in the Indian Ocean trade

Monsoons

seasonal wind patterns that cause wet and dry seasons

Noria/sakia

water wheels

Rudder

the hinged plate at the back and bottom of a boat, used for steering

Shaduf

an Ancient Egyptian irrigation tool consisting of a bucket-and-lever water lifting device