The Silk Road explores the historical significance of the Silk Road, an ancient trade network active from the 2nd century BC to the 14th century CE.
“The Silk Road, featured by commercial trade and cultural communication, dates back to 138 BC when Zhang Qian (a Chinese official who served as an imperial envoy in the late 2nd century BC during the Han Dynasty) was dispatched to the Western Regions (referring to west of Yumen Pass, most often Central Asia). It derives its name from the silk trade along the route … Apart from boosting ethnic unity and regional cooperation, the Silk Road is a carrier to make people know more about the ancient Chinese culture.”
From the Preface
The Editorial Committee
List of Figures
Series Foreword
Preface
Chapter 1 An Ancient Road and a Thriving Land
I. Prosperity of the Silk Road Trade
II. The Prosperous Silk Road Cities
III. Advanced Silk Road Transportation
IV. The Belt and Road Connecting the World
Chapter 2 The Exchange of Goods and Technologies
I. Silk Production and Export
II. Introduction of Valuable Commodities
III. Communication of Biological Species
IV. The Exchange of Medical Technology, Pharmacy, Astronomy and Calendars
Chapter 3 Ideological Exchange and Cultural Communication
I. Introduction and Evolution of Religions
II. The Spread of Art from East to West
III. Music and Literature Exchanges
Appendix: A Brief Chronology of Chinese History
Index
Basic Information
- 978-629-7646-54-1 (Paperback)
