AP WH 2.1-2.2

Silk Roads

Ancient trade routes that connected East and West, facilitating the exchange of goods, cultures, and ideas.

Crusades

A series of religious wars (1096–1291) fought over control of sacred areas, leading to increased contact between Europeans and Asian goods.

Mongol Empire

A vast empire in the 13th century that united numerous tribes and controlled important trade routes across Eurasia.

Genghis Khan

The founder and first Great Khan of the Mongol Empire, known for uniting the Mongol tribes in 1206.

Caravanserai

Rest stops along trade routes where merchants could rest, resupply, and prepare for their travels.

Luxury goods

High-value items desired for trade, such as silk, porcelain, tea, and spices.

Barter economy

An economic system where goods and services are exchanged directly without using currency.

Money economy

An economic system where standard forms of currency are used to buy goods and services.

Bills of exchange

Financial instruments that guarantee a set amount of money at a future date, allowing merchants to trade without carrying large sums of coins.

Kashgar

An important trading city on the Silk Roads, known for its strategic location and cultural diversity.

Samarkand

A major city on the Silk Roads, known for its rich history and as a center of trade and culture.

Commercialization

The process of managing or running a business with the aim of making a profit, often leading to increased trade.

Urbanization

The growth of cities as people move to urban areas for trade and job opportunities, often spurred by commerce.

Black Death / Bubonic Plague

A devastating pandemic that spread along trade routes in the 14th century, resulting in significant population loss.