Section outline

  • THEMATIC FOCUS

    Economics Systems ECN

    As societies develop, they affect and are affected by the ways that they produce, exchange, and consume goods and services.

    LEARNING OBJECTIVE 

    Unit 2: Learning Objective A

    Explain the causes and effects of growth of networks of exchange after 1200.

    HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENTS

    KC-3.1.I.A.i
    Improved commercial practices led to an increased volume of trade and expanded the
    geographical range of existing trade routes—including the Silk Roads—promoting the growth of powerful new trading cities.

    KC-3.1.I.C.i
    The growth of interregional trade in luxury goods was encouraged by innovations in previously existing transportation and commercial technologies, including the caravanserai, forms of credit, and the development of money economies.

    KC-3.3.I.B
    Demand for luxury goods increased in Afro-Eurasia. Chinese, Persian, and Indian artisans and merchants expanded their production of textiles and porcelains for export; manufacture of iron and steel expanded in China.

    • Topic 2.1 PPT File PPTX

      Download and use this PPT to help you study.

    • Topic 2.1 Lesson Content File PDF

      Download and use this document to help you study.

    • Topic 2.1 MC Practice Questions. Quiz
      Opened: Monday, 17 November 2025, 9:00 AM

      There are 25 questions in this exercise. Time yourself and try to finish within 20 minutes.

    • Topic 2.1 Reflection Assignment
      Opened: Monday, 17 November 2025, 9:00 AM

      Write a short paragraph (5–6 sentences):

      Explain one cause and one effect of Silk Roads growth after 1200, and compare the Silk Roads to one other trade network (Indian Ocean OR Trans-Saharan) in terms of economic or technological innovation.