The Silk Roads: Changing Perspectives: The Parthian monopoly

The video explores the historical significance of silk in the Buddhist world and its trade through the Parthian Empire. The Parthians, who encountered silk via a Chinese embassy, were not major consumers but profited from trade taxes. They maintained a monopoly on silk trade to the West, opposing direct Roman-Chinese relations. Despite conflicts, trade persisted due to Roman demand, with key towns like Palmyra remaining active.

What was the impact of Roman demand for silk on the Parthian Empire?

Describe the relationship between trade and warfare between the Parthians and Romans.