The Silk Road

The Silk Road refers to a network of routes used by traders for more than 1,500 years, from 130 B.C.E. to 1453 C.E.

German geographer and traveler Ferdinand von Richthofen first used the term 'silk road' in 1877 C.E.

The Han dynasty of China opened trade in 130 B.C.E.

<p>The Ottoman Empire closed off trade with the West in 1453 C.E.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Some historians prefer the term 'Silk Routes' because it better reflects the many paths taken by traders.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Traders faced challenges such as poor road conditions and the presence of robbers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Traders protected themselves by joining caravans and using camels or other pack animals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Caravanserais were large inns that housed traveling merchants and provided a place for rest and trade along the Silk Road.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Middlemen and trading posts emerged because few people traveled the entire route, creating a need for intermediaries and places for trade.</p> Signup and view all the answers