Spice Trade
The ancient business of buying and selling spices like pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg across long distances.
What is it?
The spice trade was a global network of routes that connected Asia, Africa, and Europe. Spices were valuable because they preserved food, added flavor, and were used in medicine and rituals. Pepper, called the "king of spices," came from South India and was traded for gold and silver. The spice trade led to the discovery of new lands, like when European explorers searched for a sea route to India.
Why it matters
The spice trade changed history. It made some cities very rich, sparked exploration, and brought different cultures together. Many foods we eat today, like pepper on your dinner table, are a result of this ancient trade.
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