AP World History: Trade Routes and Cultural Diffusion

The video discusses the significance of trade routes in AP World History, focusing on the Silk Roads, Indian Ocean, and trans-Saharan routes. It highlights how these routes facilitated not only the exchange of goods but also the spread of culture and ideas, such as the introduction of Islam in East Africa and Buddhism in East Asia. The video also explains how trade influenced political structures, exemplified by the rise of the kingdom of Mali. The key concept introduced is 'cultural diffusion,' emphasizing the role of merchants in spreading culture and ideas.

Which trade routes were primarily used for transporting goods in Unit 2 of AP World History?

• Indian Ocean, Pacific Ocean, and trans-Saharan

• Silk Roads, Mediterranean Sea, and trans-Siberian

• Silk Roads, Indian Ocean, and trans-Saharan

• Silk Roads, Atlantic Ocean, and trans-Siberian

What significant cultural exchange occurred as Muslim merchants traded with East Africa?

• Introduction of Confucianism

• Introduction of Islam

• Introduction of Christianity

• Introduction of Hinduism

How did Buddhism spread to East Asia?

• Through the translation of Buddhist texts

• Through Buddhist monks traveling for pilgrimage

• Through military conquests by Buddhist empires

• Through Buddhist merchants trading in the region

What was one of the political impacts of the trans-Saharan trade routes?

• The rise of the Roman Empire

• The establishment of the Kingdom of Mali

• The fall of the Byzantine Empire

• The unification of the Mongol Empire

What term is used to describe the spread of culture and ideas through trade?

• Cultural assimilation

• Cultural isolation

• Cultural diffusion

• Cultural integration

What role did merchants play beyond trading goods?

• They spread their culture and ideas

• They were primarily explorers

• They focused solely on economic gain

• They acted as political leaders