Indian ocean trade

Definition

A vast network of maritime trade routes connecting East Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and China that flourished for centuries before European arrival. Monsoon winds guided seasonal sailing patterns, and the network facilitated the exchange of goods like spices, textiles, gold, and porcelain as well as the spread of Islam, Buddhism, and cultural practices.

Examples

  • Swahili city-states like Kilwa and Mombasa thriving as trade hubs on the East African coast
  • Arab dhow traders using monsoon winds to navigate between ports
  • Chinese treasure fleets under Zheng He exploring the Indian Ocean in the early 1400s

Related Terms

Silk roads Trans-saharan trade Dar al-islam Maritime empires

Study This Concept

Practice Indian Ocean trade with free review games in these units:

AP World History: Modern Unit 2: Networks of Exchange