Indian Ocean Trade Network

Definition

Network of sea routes connecting various states throughout Afro-Eurasia through trade.
Expanded significantly around the year 1200.

Collapse of the Mongol Empire (14th century)
- Previous safety of Silk Road travel declined, leading to increased maritime trade in the Indian Ocean.
Innovations in Commercial Practices
- Adoption of money economies and credit systems facilitated easier trade.
Innovations in Transportation Technology
- Improvements in navigation technologies:
  - Magnetic Compass: Helped sailors determine direction.
  - Astrolabe: Measured stars for accurate location.
  - Latin Sail: Allowed ships to capture wind from any direction.
- Dependence on monsoon winds for predictable trade routes.
- Advances in shipbuilding:
  - Chinese Junk: Large cargo capacity.
  - Larger Dhows: Enhanced cargo capabilities.
Spread of Islam
- Islam’s merchant-friendly approach increased trade along maritime routes.

Growth of Powerful Trading Cities
- Swahili City-States: Wealthy due to strategic location; traded gold, ivory, and enslaved people.
- Malacca: Capital of the Sultanate; controlled the Strait of Malacca, taxing passing ships to increase wealth.
- Gujarat: Midpoint for trade; exchanged cotton textiles and indigo for gold and silver.
Establishment of Diasporic Communities
- Groups retaining cultural customs while settling elsewhere.
- Chinese and Arab/Persian merchants established communities in Southeast Asia and East Africa, facilitating trade.
Cultural and Technological Transfers
- Significant exchanges of culture and technology influenced by trade.
- Example: Admiral Zheng He's expeditions led to military technology transfers (e.g., gunpowder cannons).
- Ming Dynasty’s trade partnerships enhanced roles of various states in Indian Ocean trade.

The Indian Ocean Trade Network played a crucial role in the economic, cultural, and technological landscapes of the regions involved, influencing trade dynamics and facilitating significant cultural exchanges.