Answer each question with a few sentences:

How did the different locations of trade routes impact each trading system? In what ways did the different methods of transport impact the items that could be traded? How did the products traded in each system have different impacts on society? What were the main diseases, religions, and customs that were spread through each system? Compare the different groups that controlled trade in each system. How did they benefit differently? Identify the different groups of people who used the products and goods of each system. Which system had the most dramatic impact? Use your chart and identify three reasons that support your answer.

1 answer

The different locations of trade routes had a significant impact on each trading system. For example, the Silk Road connected Europe and Asia, allowing for the exchange of luxury goods such as silk, spices, and precious metals. On the other hand, the Trans-Saharan trade route focused on the exchange of goods between North Africa and West Africa, including salt, gold, and slaves. These different routes facilitated the exchange of specific goods based on the geographical locations they connected.

The different methods of transport also influenced the items that could be traded. For instance, marine routes like the Indian Ocean trade allowed for the transportation of bulk goods like grains, textiles, and pottery. Land routes like the Silk Road primarily dealt with luxury and high-value goods that could be transported easily by caravans.

The products traded in each system had different impacts on society. The Silk Road, for example, introduced innovations such as paper-making, gunpowder, and the compass, which had a profound impact on the development of civilizations. The Trans-Saharan trade brought about the spread of Islam, as merchants played a crucial role in disseminating this religion across West Africa.

Religions spread through the trade routes included Islam through the Trans-Saharan trade, Christianity through the Silk Road, and Buddhism through the Indian Ocean trade. Diseases also spread through these routes, with the Silk Road facilitating the spread of the Black Death during the 14th century.

In terms of trade control, various groups benefited differently in each system. For example, in the Indian Ocean trade, Muslim merchants from the Arabian Peninsula dominated trade and profit from the exchange of goods. In the Silk Road, Chinese and Central Asian merchants played a significant role in facilitating trade and reaping economic benefits.

There were different groups of people who used the products and goods of each system. The Indian Ocean trade connected diverse civilizations such as the Arab, Indian, Chinese, and East African societies. The Silk Road linked the Chinese, Central Asian, Persian, and Roman civilizations. The Trans-Saharan trade involved the African kingdoms of Ghana, Mali, and Songhai, as well as Arab traders.

Among the trade systems mentioned, the most dramatic impact can be attributed to the Silk Road. Firstly, it facilitated the exchange of goods, technologies, and ideas between Europe and Asia, contributing to the rise of civilizations and cultural diffusion. Secondly, it played a significant role in the spread of religions such as Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam, transforming societies and belief systems. Finally, the Silk Road greatly influenced the global economy, connecting the East and the West and shaping the trade and economic systems of various civilizations.