Indian Ocean trade: A network of sea routes connecting various states across Afro-Eurasia.
Time period: Expanded significantly around 1200, but existed long before.
Causes of Expansion
Collapse of the Mongol Empire
Mongol control made Silk Road trade safe and easy.
Collapse led to a shift towards Maritime trade in the Indian Ocean.
Innovations in Commercial Practices
Development of money economies and credit systems.
These advancements increased trade efficiency across sea routes.
Innovations in Transportation Technology
Navigation Technologies: Improvements in the magnetic compass and astrolabe.
Ship Builds: Enhanced designs like the Chinese junk and Arab dhows.
Monsoon Winds: Knowledge of predictable monsoon patterns facilitated navigation.
Spread of Islam
Islam supported trade due to the mercantile background of Muhammad.
Facilitated trade along both land and sea routes.
Effects of Expansion
Growth of Powerful Trading Cities
Swahili City States: Grew wealthy by trading gold, ivory, and enslaved people; built mosques and public works.
Malacca: Controlled the Strait of Malacca, taxed passing ships, expanded power and wealth.
Gujarat: Midpoint of trade routes; traded textiles for Middle Eastern gold and silver; taxed ships for increased wealth.
Establishment of Diaspora Communities
Communities of people from one place establishing homes in another while retaining cultural customs.
Examples: Chinese in Southeast Asia, Arab and Persian communities in East Africa.
Cultural and Technological Transfers
Merchants spread religion, language, and technology.
Example: Admiral Zheng He's expeditions spread military technology and influenced regional trade practices.
Cultural and Technological Transfers
Zheng He's Expeditions
Commissioned by Ming Dynasty to explore and enroll states in China's tributary system.
Fleet included 300 ships and 27,000 men, showcasing military technology like gunpowder cannons.
Influenced regional trade dynamics by promoting state-led partnerships.
Conclusion
The Indian Ocean trade network was crucial in connecting diverse regions through sea routes, fostering significant cultural, technological, and economic exchanges.
Understanding the causes and effects provides insight into the historical significance of trade networks in global history.