Post-Classical Period: Regional and Transregional Interactions (600 CE to 1450 CE)

Decline of Classical Empires: Transition to successor states; feudalism emerges in Western Europe after the fall of the Western Roman Empire.
Rise of Islam: Founded by Prophet Muhammad in the 7th century; rapid expansion into the Caliphates (Umayyad and Abbasid) with a theocratic government.
Role of Commerce: Islam promotes trade and mercantile activities, facilitating greater commercial interactions.

Major Trade Zones by 1000 CE: Indian Ocean, Trans-Saharan routes, Mediterranean, and Silk Roads; exchange of luxury goods and raw materials.
Chinese Dynasties: Collapse of the Han leads to Sui, Tang, and ultimately Song Dynasties, known for significant technological advancements.
Sudanic Kingdoms: Rise of kingdoms like Mali in West Africa with adoption of Islam, enhancing trade with North Africa.
Swahili Coast: Cultural blending leading to the development of the Swahili language from Bantu and Arabic influences.

Crusades: Sparked by Islamic expansion into Palestine; significant for reconnecting Western Europe with Greco-Roman culture, leading to a Renaissance.
Mongols and Turks: From 1200 CE, these groups disrupted trade but later stabilized it, promoting the Pax Mongola along the Silk Roads.
Spread of Disease: Bubonic Plague (Black Death) spreads across Eurasia alongside reestablished connections.

Aztec and Inca Empires: Formed by the 12th century, contributing to regional complexity and connections.
Increased Exploration: Innovations and trade spur voyages by Zheng He, Marco Polo, and Ibn Battuta; precede European explorations (Vasco da Gama, Columbus) seeking new trade routes.