Unit 2: Networks of Exchange (c. 1200 – c. 1450)

Silk Roads

A vast network of overland trade routes connecting East Asia to the Mediterranean and North Africa.

Pax Mongolica

The period of stability under the Mongol Empire that promoted trade and cultural exchange.

Caravanserai

Roadside inns located about 100 miles apart providing safety and rest for merchants.

Flying Cash

A system of credit developed in China allowing merchants to deposit paper money in one location and withdraw it in another.

Bills of Exchange

A document stating the holder was legally promised a set payment, used in banking to eliminate carrying heavy gold coins.

Kashgar

A major trading city at the western edge of China, known for its role in Islamic culture.

Samarkand

A cultural melting pot and major trading city in Uzbekistan where diverse religions coexisted.

Mongol Empire

Created the largest contiguous land empire in history, known for unifying rival clans under Genghis Khan.

Genghis Khan

The founder of the Mongol Empire, known for his adaptability and meritocracy in leadership.

Security on Silk Roads

Mongols heavily policed the Silk Roads to ensure safe passage for traders.

Diasporic Communities

Settlements of people away from their homeland, often formed through trade networks.

Monsoons

Seasonal winds in the Indian Ocean crucial for navigating maritime trade.

Lateen Sail

A triangular sail that allowed ships to maneuver against the wind.

Astrolabe

An instrument that allowed sailors to calculate latitude at sea.

Swahili City-States

Trade cities on the East African coast that interacted with Asian markets, leading to cultural blending.

Mansa Musa

The ruler of Mali known for his immense wealth and pilgrimage to Mecca.

Timbuktu

A center of Islamic learning and trade in West Africa that became renowned for its libraries.

Camel

The primary transport animal used in Trans-Saharan trade, known for its ability to travel long distances without water.

Gold-Salt Trade

Trade network where West Africa exchanged gold for North African salt.

Islam in West Africa

Islam spread via trade in West Africa, often blending with local traditions.

Indian Ocean Trade

A trade network allowing the transport of bulk goods due to maritime capabilities.

Zheng He

A Chinese admiral known for his voyages that improved trade in the Indian Ocean.

Golden Horde

One of the four Mongol khanates that controlled Russia and collected tribute.

Il-Khanate

Mongol khanate that ruled over the Middle East and converted to Islam.

Chagatai Khanate

Central Asian region of the Mongol Empire.

Yuan Dynasty

Mongol dynasty established in China by Kublai Khan.

Cultural Exchange

The transfer of cultural elements, such as technology and religion, between the Mongol Empire and other regions.