Which of the following best explains the relative significance of the trans-Saharan and Indian Ocean trade routes?(1 point) Responses Neither of them was significant because both were limited in whom they could reach. Neither of them was significant because both were limited in whom they could reach. The Indian Ocean basin was more significant because it connected the Middle East and parts of Africa with Asia, specifically China, and it had important goods such as silk and porcelain. The Indian Ocean basin was more significant because it connected the Middle East and parts of Africa with Asia, specifically China, and it had important goods such as silk and porcelain. The routes were equally significant—each in its own way—as they both contributed to significant cultural developments along the routes, and worth cannot be measured simply by the goods that were traded. The routes were equally significant—each in its own way—as they both contributed to significant cultural developments along the routes, and worth cannot be measured simply by the goods that were traded. Trans-Saharan trade was more significant because it had more valuable resources such as salt, gold, and ivory.

Answer 1

The most accurate response is: The routes were equally significant—each in its own way—as they both contributed to significant cultural developments along the routes, and worth cannot be measured simply by the goods that were traded.

Both the trans-Saharan and Indian Ocean trade routes played crucial roles in facilitating trade, cultural exchange, and the spread of ideas between different regions. While the Indian Ocean trade was significant for its extensive connections between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, including valuable goods like silk and porcelain, the trans-Saharan trade was equally important for its transport of goods like gold, salt, and ivory, and for connecting sub-Saharan Africa with North Africa and beyond. Each route contributed to regional economies and cultural identities in unique ways, making their significance comparable.