A group of people traveling together for mutual protection, often with pack animals such as camels.

Mongolian emperor of China and grandson of Genghis Khan who completed his grandfather's conquest of China. He established the Yuan dynasty in 1271 and built a great capital on the site of modern Beijing where he received Marco Polo.

Moroccan Muslim scholar, the most widely traveled individual of his time. He wrote a detailed account of his visits to Islamic lands from China to Spain and western Sudan. His writings gave a glimpse into the world of that time period.

An ancient trade route between China and the Mediterranean Sea linking China with the Roman Empire.

Italian explorer and author. He made numerous trips to China and returned to Europe to write of his journeys. He is responsible for much of the knowledge exchanged between Europe and China during this time period.

Chinese dynasty ruled by the Mongols from 1279-1368; best known ruler was Kublai Khan.

A fine lustrous fiber composed mainly of fibroin and produced by certain insect larvae to form cocoons, especially the strong, elastic, fibrous secretion of silkworms used to make thread and fabric.

The type of camel best suited for desert travel.

A new idea or product is spread from culture to culture.

The large landmass that includes both Europe and Asia.

A fertile place in a desert where there is water and vegetation.

Chinese naval explorer who sailed along most of the coast of Asia, Japan, and half way down the east coast of Africa before his death.

A covered marketplace, typically found at trading posts along the Silk Road.

The large geographical region spanning Africa, Europe, and Asia