AP World Period 3 - Silk, Sea, & Sand Routes (KC 3.1)

Summary

In this video, Amanda from High-Level History helps AP World students review Period 3 (600-1450 CE), focusing on key concept 3.1, which explores trade networks after the fall of Classical empires. She highlights how new empires like the Islamic, Mongol, and Viking empires revitalized trade across Afro-Eurasia. Important trade cities, technologies like camel saddles, and the influence of migrations and diasporas are also discussed. Amanda emphasizes how these developments set the stage for future global connections and invites viewers to stay tuned for further lessons on Period 3.

Takeaways

• 📜 Period 3 (600-1450 CE) in AP World History covers major trade networks and the rise of new empires.
• 🛤️ Key Concept 3.1 focuses on the continuation and re-invigoration of trade after the Classical era, especially in Afro-Eurasia.
• 📉 After the fall of classical empires, European trade slowed, but new players like the Islamic Empires, Mongols, and Vikings revitalized global trade.
• 🏰 The Islamic Empires (Umayyad and Abbasid), Mongols, and Vikings were major trading powers, while the Byzantine Empire also played a role in trade.
• 🏙️ Major cities like Timbuktu, Baghdad, and Venice grew along these trade routes, replacing classical cities like Rome and Athens.
• 💎 On land routes like the Silk Road, luxury goods such as spices, silk, and gems were traded, while heavier goods like timber were traded via sea routes.
• 🛠️ New technologies such as camel saddles, caravanserais, compasses, and astrolabes improved trade and navigation during this period.
• 💰 Economic tools like paper money (flying cash) from China and credit systems facilitated trade, making transactions easier.
• 🚶‍♂️ Large migrations, like the Bantu migrations, and diasporas, such as the Muslim and Jewish diasporas, spread culture, language, and religion across regions.
• 📚 Explorers like Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta connected societies through their travels, laying the groundwork for future global trade.

Q & A

What is Period 3 in AP World History, and what time frame does it cover?

Period 3 in AP World History covers the time from 600 to 1450 CE. It focuses on major changes in trade, migration, and the rise of new empires across afro-eurasia.

What is the significance of Key Concept 3.1 in Period 3?

Key Concept 3.1 emphasizes the continuation and revival of trade routes, despite the fall of classical empires. It highlights the role of new players, such as the Islamic Empires, the Mongols, and the Vikings, in revitalizing trade across afro-eurasia.

Which regions experienced a decline in trade after the fall of classical empires?

Europe experienced a decline in trade after the fall of classical empires, particularly during the 'Dark Ages,' while the rest of afro-eurasia thrived.

Who were the major players in trade during Period 3?

The major players in trade during Period 3 were the Islamic Empires (especially the Umayyad and Abbasid), the Mongols, and the Vikings. These empires dominated trade across large areas of afro-eurasia.

What role did the Mongols play in reviving trade during this period?

The Mongols, with the largest land empire in history, played a key role in reviving trade by maintaining safety along trade routes, particularly the Silk Road, which allowed for the exchange of goods and ideas.

How did the Vikings contribute to trade in Europe?

The Vikings, using their longboats, dominated trade in Northern Europe and through European rivers. Their ability to navigate both sea and river routes allowed them to control much of Europe's trade.

What were some of the key cities that rose as a result of trade during this period?

Key cities that rose due to trade included Timbuktu, Baghdad, and Venice. These cities thrived as important hubs along trade routes.

What types of goods were typically traded on land routes versus sea routes?

On land routes, luxury goods like spices, silk, and gems were commonly traded due to the need for lighter, more valuable items. On sea routes, heavier items like timber and exotic animals were traded, as ships could carry larger loads.

What technological advancements facilitated trade during Period 3?

Technological advancements that facilitated trade included the development of camel saddles for easier travel in Africa, caravanserais as rest stops on the Silk Road, improved navigation tools like the compass and astrolabe, and the use of larger, faster ships.

How did paper money and credit systems impact trade in this period?

The introduction of paper money, particularly in China, and credit systems made trade more efficient. Paper money was lighter and easier to carry than coins, and credit allowed merchants to purchase goods and pay for them over time, expanding economic activity.