Which option best analyzes how trade contributed to cultural change in Southeast Asia in the Medieval era?

Question

(1 point)
Trade led to the creation of merchant communities, O which caused the diffusion of religious practices from Arabia to Southeast Asia.
Trade led to Arab merchants establishing themselves in Southeast Asian communities and largely assimilating to existing religions, while spreading other cultural practices to the region.
Trade led to increasing connections between Arabia and Southeast Asia, leading to acculturation.
Trade did not lead to significant cultural change in Southeast Asia during this period.

Answer 1

The option that best analyzes how trade contributed to cultural change in Southeast Asia in the Medieval era is:

Trade led to Arab merchants establishing themselves in Southeast Asian communities and largely assimilating to existing religions, while spreading other cultural practices to the region.

This option highlights both the integration of Arab merchants into local cultures and the exchange of cultural practices, thereby accurately reflecting the complex dynamics of trade and cultural change during that period.