#AP World History: Modern - Unit 2: Networks of Exchange (1200-1450) 🌍

Hey there, future AP World History master! 👋 This guide is your express ticket to acing Unit 2, focusing on the awesome world of trade networks between 1200 and 1450. Let's dive in!

#🧭 Overview: Trade Takes Center Stage

Unit 2 is all about how global trade boomed during the post-classical era. While Unit 1 covered political structures, this unit explores the economic and cultural exchanges that shaped the world. Get ready to explore the Silk Roads, Indian Ocean, and Trans-Saharan routes and their impacts. Remember: Trade is a HUGE deal in AP World History!

This unit is foundational for understanding later developments in global interaction. Pay close attention to the causes and effects of expanding trade networks.

#🛤️ Major Trade Routes

# 🛣️ Silk Roads

• What: A network of land and sea routes connecting East and West.
• Key Goods: Silk (obviously!), spices, gold, luxury items.
• Cultural Exchange: Spread of ideas, religions (like Buddhism), and technology.
• Decline: Declined in the 14th century due to the rise of sea trade.

# 🌊 Indian Ocean Trade Routes

• What: Sea routes connecting Africa, the Middle East, India, Southeast Asia, and East Asia.
• Key Goods: Spices, textiles, gold, luxury items.
• Cultural Exchange: Spread of Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism, along with tech and ideas.
• Decline: Declined in the 15th century with the rise of Atlantic trade.

# 🏜️ Trans-Saharan Trade Routes

• What: Land routes connecting West Africa with the Mediterranean and the Middle East.
• Key Goods: Gold, salt, ivory, and other luxury items.
• Cultural Exchange: Spread of Islam and other cultural ideas.
• Decline: Declined in the 16th century with the rise of Atlantic trade.

#🗺️ Context: From Classical to Post-Classical Trade

#Classical Era (600 BCE - 600 CE)

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