Chapter 7 Notes
Networks of Communication and Exchange, 300 BCE ? 600 CE
The Silk Road
Origins and Operations
Caravan routes connecting China and the Middle East across Central Asia and Iran
Began around 1500 BCE
Parthians were ruling Iranian dynasty from 250 BCE ? 226 CE
Religion, Ideas, Goods, People travelled over the Silk Road
Helped spread Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, maybe some Hinduism
By 100 BCE the Greeks could purchase Chinese silk from Parthians
Alfalfa and wine grapes moved to China via the Silk Road
Chinese farmers also adopted pistachios, walnuts, pomegranates, sesame, coriander, spinach, etc.
Going west from china were peaches, apricots, cinnamon, ginger, and other spices
Nomadism in Central and Inner Asia