International Trade Networks: 600 AD to 1490 AD

International trade networks from 600 AD to 1490 AD were very successful and crucial to many important changes that took place because of trade. The continents that were most involved in trading routes during this time period were Europe, Africa, and Asia. The primary motives for trade within each of these continents were to acquire goods and resources that were valued and highly desirable. The other motive along the trade routes was for the expansion of countries, religions, and cultures. Religion was especially transmitted along these trade routes because of the pilgrimages that took place for Christians, Muslims, Jews, and Buddhists. These pilgrimages and trade between differing cultures in general ultimately resulted in the various

The Silk Road in China consisted of caravan routes that connected China to the Middle East. Chinese goods that were valued by the other continents included: silk, iron, coal, and porcelain. Foods exported from China were rice, wheat, millet, and peas, all of which were easily grown within the fertile and dry lands. The caravans in China used horses and the Chinese general named Zhang Jian was able to introduce new plants to China, such as alfalfa, which was useful as fodder to the horses, and wine grapes. Horses were brought into China through these routes because of the high demand for horses. The Indian Ocean Maritime System was a network of seaports, trading routes, and maritime culture, which linked the countries on the coasts of Africa and Indonesia. Voyages took place at sea, for example, Chinese would voyage to East Africa and Arab and Persian traders were able to reach across southern China. The steady year-round monsoon winds were what aided in the use of ships for trade in this geographic region. Mediterranean sailors rarely ventured too far in the ocean, but the Indian Ocean sailors often ventured out further thanks to the monsoon winds. Africa produced exotic animals, wood, and ivory and these goods were able to reach more countries. Other valuable goods from this region that were sought by traders included frankincense and myrrh resins, pearls from the Persian Gulf, and copper from the mines in southeast