Chapter 12

World Trade Routes Overview

• Timeframe: 1300-1500

• Focus on early economic systems and trade regulation.

Learning Objectives

• Understand societal regulation of trade.

• Describe Asia's trading networks.

• Analyze internal trade's cultural impact in China.

• Examine the Mongol Empire's legacy on trade.

• Identify goods traded across the Sahara.

• Explore pre-European trade in the Americas.

Key Terms

• Free-market economy: Minimal government involvement in trade.

• Supply and Demand: Balance between what is sold and what consumers wish to buy.

• Moral economy: Focus on basic necessities over profits.

• Trade Diaspora: Network of international traders.

• Silk Route: Major trade route connecting Asia and Europe.

• Lateen sail: Innovations that enhanced maritime travel.

Historical Analysis of Trade

• World trade impacts social and economic systems through free-market principles.

Asian Trade Networks

• Complex land and sea routes, including the Indian Ocean

• Islam encouraged trade, connecting regions through shared religious practices.

China as Trade Hub

• Cathay and The Orient: Early names for China.

• By 1200, China was economically advanced; internal trade was prioritized.

• Major goods included silk, porcelain, and tea.

• Zheng He’s voyages spread Chinese luxury goods but led to isolation.

Mongol Impact on Trade

• The Mongols facilitated trade across the Silk Route through governance stability.

• Genghis Khan expanded territories and established a vast empire.

Sub-Saharan African Trade

• Trade linked to Mediterranean through camel caravan routes.

• Key exports included gold, slaves, and commodities from East Africa.

Pre-Columbian Trade in the Americas

• Two trade networks: Northern (Mexico) and Southern (Andes).

• Inca Empire and trade guilds such as Pochteca enriched economies before European contact.