Encyclopedia of World Trade: From Ancient Times to the Present: From Ancient Times to the Present

Trade has defined relationships between cultures and countries from prehistoric times to the present. From the caravans of the ancient world, to the search for new trade routes during the age of discovery, to the development of interconnected markets and the global economy, trade has been a defining force in world history. This exhaustive four-volume set is the definitive reference on the history of trade in all time periods. It traces the historical and contemporary interaction of trade, commerce, and culture in fascinating detail. Encyclopedia of World Trade offers readers and researchers from high school level and above a complete and accurate account of the central role of commerce in world affairs. The set: --examines the exchange of commodities, cultures, practices, technologies, and ideas between civilizations and nations from ancient times to the present --covers topics as varied as trade routes and ports, markets and economic systems, trade goods and influences, and social and cultural issues --features more than 350 illustrations, including maps, a chronology of trade, numerous sidebars, and historical documents.