Focus: How various states were interconnected through networks of exchange
Networks not just for trade but also for cultural diffusion and transfers
Major Networks of Exchange
Silk Roads
Indian Ocean Network
Trans-Saharan Trade Network
General Developments
Expansion of geographical range of networks
Innovations in commercial practices and technology
Growth in wealth and power for states participating in networks
Rise and fall of powerful states and cities
Silk Roads
Mainly luxury goods (e.g., Chinese silk, porcelain) were traded
Expansion due to:
Demand for luxury goods
Innovations such as Caravanserai (guest houses for safety and cultural exchange)
Development of money economies, e.g., paper money and "flying money" system
Rise of powerful trading cities like Kashgar
Indian Ocean Network
Made possible by understanding monsoon winds
Traded common goods (e.g., textiles, spices) and luxury goods
Expansion due to:
Technological innovations (magnetic compass, astrolabe, Chinese junk ships)
Commercial practices similar to Silk Roads
Growth of states like Swahili city-states, becoming Islamic trade centers
Establishment of diaspora communities, cultural diffusion
Trans-Saharan Trade Network
Expanded due to innovations like camel saddles
Rise of states like Mali, rich from gold trade and Islamic conversion
Mansa Musa increased Mali's wealth and influence
Cultural Consequences of Connectivity
Religion Transfer: Spread of Buddhism into China via Silk Roads
Literary and Artistic Transfer: Islamic scholars translated Greek and Roman classics
Scientific and Technological Transfer: Gunpowder's spread and impact
Environmental Consequences of Connectivity
Crops Transfer: Champa rice to China, leading to population growth
Disease Transfer: Bubonic plague spread along trade routes
Mongol Empire's Role
Established largest land-based empire, replacing many states
Facilitated trade and safety across routes (Pax Mongolica)
Technological and cultural transfers (e.g., Uyghur script for written language)
Conclusion
The interconnectedness of states through these networks led to significant economic, cultural, and technological developments throughout the period 1200-1450. These exchanges laid the groundwork for further global interactions in later periods.