Ming Dynasty Trade Networks

Grand Canal

• Connected the Yangzi River region to Beijing.
• Facilitated trade of goods like rice and silk.
• Supported economic growth and city supplies.
• Crucial for the Ming Dynasty's economic vibrancy.
• Essential for internal trade and urban centers.

Silver and Ming China

• Silver became the primary tax payment in the 1430s.
• Replaced paper currency due to instability and mistrust.
• High demand created global trade links.
• Main sources were Japan and Spanish American mines.
• Strengthened China's economy and global trade role.
• Fueled economic growth domestically and internationally.

Philippines and American Silver

• The Philippines served as a trade hub between the Americas and Asia.
• Spanish galleons transported silver from Mexico and Peru to Manila.
• Silver was exchanged for Chinese luxury goods (e.g., silk, porcelain).
• Boosted China's economy and global trade.
• Showcased Spanish and Asian trade networks.
• Supported demand for Asian luxury goods.

Caravan Trade

• Connected regions across Asia and the Middle East.
• Facilitated the transport of goods (spices, textiles, metals).
• Connected major trade centers and fostered cross-cultural exchange.
• Supported by Ottoman Empire's protection and infrastructure.
• Enhanced economic integration.
• Included overland routes between Europe and Asia.

Ottoman Caravanserais

• Large inns along trade routes for merchants.
• Promoted economic stability and cultural exchange.
• Kept long-distance trade routes operational.
• Showcased Ottoman administrative efficiency and trade dominance.
• Ensured safe passage for traders.
• Provided logistical support and security.

Africa and Precious Metals

• Europeans believed Africa was rich in gold and precious metals.
• Portuguese searched for new routes to these resources.
• This fueled European exploration and trade along the African coast.

Carrack

• A large, multi-mast ship for long-distance voyages.
• Used by European explorers in the Atlantic and Indian Ocean.
• Offered greater cargo capacity and ocean stability.

Caravel and Triangular Sails

• Smaller, highly maneuverable ships with triangular sails.
• Allowed ships to sail against the wind more effectively.
• Critical for exploration of the African coast and Atlantic.

Compass and Astrolabe

• Navigational tools that advanced European exploration.
• Compass for direction, astrolabe for latitude.
• Facilitated open-sea navigation and long-distance travel.

Tacking

• Sailing technique enabling movement against the wind.
• Improved maneuverability and navigational abilities.

Sugar Cane Production

• Key crop in the Americas, especially the Caribbean.
• Required extensive labor, leading to enslaved African workers.
• Important for plantation economies.

Portuguese in the Indian Ocean

• Established trading posts and controlled key maritime routes.
• Competed with local and Muslim merchants for dominance.
• Strengthened European influence in Asian trade.

Taino and European Interactions

• Columbus's initial encounters with the Taino in the Caribbean.
• Marked by misunderstandings and exploitation.
• Foreshadowed European colonization and decline of native populations.

Conquistadors

• Spanish military leaders who conquered the New World.
• Driven by wealth, religious conversion, and expansion.

Encomienda

• Spanish system granting colonists control over indigenous labor.
• Forced labor in exchange for supposed protection and instruction.

Aztec Empire

• Powerful Mesoamerican civilization centered in Tenochtitlán.
• Known for military strength, complex society, and tribute system.
• Conquered by Hernán Cortés in 1521.

Warfare and Human Sacrifice

• Integral to Aztec religion and military campaigns.
• Sacrifices were believed to appease gods and maintain cosmic balance.

Diseases and Holocaust of Native Americans—90% Population Loss

• European diseases (smallpox) devastated indigenous populations.
• Resulted in massive demographic collapse, aiding European conquest.

Smallpox

• One of the deadliest diseases brought to the New World by Europeans.
• Caused widespread mortality and weakened native societies.

Incas

• Empire in the Andes, centered in Cuzco.
• Known for... (The text excerpt ends here)