AP World History Unit 2: Networks of Exchange (1200-1450)

Big Picture Overview

• Time period: 1200 to 1450 CE
• Focus on the connection of states and empires through networks of exchange
• Networks facilitated economic interactions and cultural diffusion

Major Networks of Exchange

1. Silk Roads
2. Indian Ocean Network
3. Trans-Saharan Trade Network

General Developments (1200-1450)

• Expansion of geographical range of networks
• Innovations in commercial practices and technologies
• States grew wealthy and powerful through participation
• Rise and fall of powerful states and cities

Silk Roads

• Traded mainly luxury goods (e.g., Chinese silk and porcelain)
• Expansion led by demand for luxury items
• Innovations:
  • Transportation Technologies: Development of caravanserais
  • Commercial Practices: Money economies and new forms of credit (e.g., flying money system)
• Rise of trading cities (e.g., Kashgar)

Indian Ocean Network

• Maritime trade network with expanded scope
• Understanding of monsoon winds was key
• Traded bulk goods (e.g., textiles, spices) and luxury items
• Innovations:
  • Technological: Magnetic compass, improved astrolabe, Chinese junk ships
  • Commercial Practices: Similar to Silk Roads
• Development of Swahili city-states and diaspora communities (e.g., Arab and Persian in East Africa)
• Cultural diffusion (e.g., Swahili language)
• Notable figure: Zheng He and his voyages

Trans-Saharan Trade Network

• Expanded due to transportation technology (e.g., camel saddle)
• Led to wealth and power of empires like Mali
• Conversion of leadership to Islam key for Mali
• Mansa Musa expanded trade and wealth

Effects of Networks of Exchange

Cultural Effects

• Spread of Religions: Buddhism spread to China via Silk Roads
• Literary and Artistic Transfers: Islamic scholars' work in Baghdad influencing European Renaissance
• Scientific and Technological Innovations: Spread of gunpowder

Environmental Effects

• Crops: Transfer of Champa rice to China
• Diseases: Bubonic plague spread via trade routes

The Mongol Empire

• Largest land-based empire, replaced powerful empires
• Facilitated networks of exchange and communication
• Encouraged international trade and extracted wealth as facilitators
• Pax Mongolica: "Peace of the Mongols" ensuring safety and trade
• Cultural and technological transfers (e.g., Uyghur script adoption)

Conclusion

• Mongol Empire played a significant role in enhancing global connectivity
• Networks of exchange crucial for cultural, technological, and economic development

Additional Resources

• AP World History Heimler Review Guide for comprehensive study material and practice exams.