Chapter 7
Chapter 7 West Africans imported scarce salt because it was good for flavoring and preserving food. Merchants became a distinct group in society. Chinese merchants were able to able to purchase land estates and establish themselves as the gentry class. Wealth available from controlling and taxing trade motivated the creation of states in various parts of the world. Trade was important overall Trade routes: Silk, Sand, and Sea Routes. Silk Originated in China Silk was heavily traded Small items were traded Sea Important for because it creates ports Walrus tusks were a trade item Sand Primary trade route for Sahara desert Spread of Islam