Unit 2.1 The Silk Road and Trade Routes

This set of flashcards covers key concepts about the Silk Road, Indian Ocean, and Trans-Saharan trade routes, addressing cities, economic practices, cultural exchanges, and technological advancements.

Where did the land-based trade routes of the Silk Road stretch?

From China to Europe and into North Africa.

What city was the intersection of all three main Silk Road routes?

Dunhuang.

Which city served as a stopping point between China and the Mediterranean?

Samarkand.

What led to the growth of cities along the Silk Road?

The increased demand for luxury goods and the rise of new empires.

How did the Mongol Empire contribute to the Silk Road?

By reviving the land route and improving safety for traders.

What transportation technology increased the goods that could be carried by animals on the Silk Road?

Saddles.

What was 'flying cash' used for in China?

Allowing merchants to transfer cash without physically transporting it.

What was a caravanserai?

A place for travelers and their animals to rest, often becoming a center of cultural exchange.

What was the original nature of Mahayana Buddhism as it spread along the Silk Road?

It evolved from atheistic to a form where the Buddha became regarded as a deity.

What major disease spread along trade routes, resulting in significant population loss in Europe?

The bubonic plague, also known as the Black Death.

Which sea-based trade route was predominant until 1500?

The Indian Ocean trade routes.

What innovations were significant for maritime trade in the Indian Ocean?

The astrolabe, compass, and Chinese junks.

What civilization emerged as a dominant trading power in Southeast Asia?

The Srivijaya.

What were the main goods traded along the Trans-Saharan trade routes?

Manufactured goods from North Africa and agricultural products from Southwest Africa.

What was a major technological advancement that allowed for easier travel across the desert in the Trans-Saharan trade?

The introduction of Arabian camels.

What kingdom rose to prominence in West Africa during the Trans-Saharan trade period?

The kingdom of Mali.