Theme

History of Trade

Pivotal moments in trade across human history.

Peak of the Maritime Silk Road under Song Dynasty

TradePeak of the Maritime Silk Road under Song Dynastyc. 1127 CE · Hankou, ChinaThe Song Dynasty establishes a global maritime trade network connecting China to East Africa.

Formation of the Hanseatic League

TradeFormation of the Hanseatic Leaguec. 1241 CE · Lübeck, GermanyNorthern German merchants form a powerful commercial and defensive alliance.

Mansa Musa's Pilgrimage and Gold Economy

TradeMansa Musa's Pilgrimage and Gold Economy1324 CE · Cairo, Egypt (en route)Mansa Musa's pilgrimage disrupts gold markets in Cairo with massive displays of wealth.