European Trading Posts in Africa and Asia: Impact and Legacy

Vocabulary terms covering the rise, height, characteristics, and eventual decline of the Indian Ocean trade network from 600 to 1450 CE.

Indian Ocean trade

A vast maritime trade network connecting East Africa, the Middle East, India, Southeast Asia, and China for centuries.

Monsoon winds

Predictable winds that drove and sustained Indian Ocean trade, especially between 600 and 1450 CE.

Dhows and Chinese junks

Large sailing vessels that were relied upon to transport goods across the Indian Ocean trade network.

Luxury goods (Indian Ocean trade)

High-value commodities exchanged across the Indian Ocean network, specifically spices, silk, and porcelain.

Bulk commodities (Indian Ocean trade)

Everyday cargo items traded across the Indian Ocean network, notably timber and foodstuffs.

Center of world trade (600–1450 CE)

The Indian Ocean, which served as the primary global trade hub driven by independent merchants and maritime routes.

Portuguese arrival (Indian Ocean trade)

The intrusion of European powers who used violence and the conquest of port cities to dominate and monopolize lucrative maritime trade routes.

Pre-colonial Indian Ocean trade system

A largely peaceful, multiracial, and independent merchant-driven system that flourished for centuries prior to European disruption.