Indian Ocean trade routes

Definition

The Indian Ocean trade routes refer to a network of maritime trade connections that spanned the Indian Ocean, connecting various regions from East Africa to Southeast Asia during the period of 600-1450. These routes facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural practices among diverse civilizations.

Related terms

Maritime Silk Road: This term refers to the sea-based trading route that connected China with various countries across Asia and Africa.

Monsoon winds: These are seasonal winds in the Indian Ocean region that played a crucial role in facilitating maritime trade by enabling ships to navigate effectively.

Swahili city-states: These were urban centers along the eastern coast of Africa that flourished due to their involvement in long-distance trade on the Indian Ocean routes.