Indian Ocean Trade Network

Definition

A sea-based trade route that connected East Africa, Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. It facilitated the exchange of goods like spices, textiles, and precious stones during ancient times.

Related terms

Monsoon Winds: Seasonal winds in Indian Ocean region which were used by sailors to navigate their ships along the trade routes.

Dhow Ships: Traditional sailing vessels with one or more masts, typically used in the Red Sea and Indian Ocean region for trading purposes.

Swahili City-States: A number of trading city-states along the east coast of Africa that played a significant role in Indian Ocean trade.