Trade and Commerce

Home > History by Chronology > Ancient civilizations > Trade and Commerce

The systems and practices of trade and commerce in ancient civilizations including currency and markets.

Bartering and early forms of trade: The history of bartering and early forms of trade such as livestock and precious metals.
Trade routes: The different trade routes used by ancient civilizations and the goods traded along them.
Currency: The evolution of money and currency systems in different ancient civilizations.
Marketplaces: The role of marketplaces in the trade and commerce of ancient civilizations and their cultural significance.
Merchants and traders: The importance of merchants and traders in ancient economies and their roles in shaping trade networks.
Trade partnerships: The formation of trade partnerships and alliances between different ancient civilizations and its impact on the economy.
Trading practices and regulations: The different trading practices and regulations implemented by ancient societies to protect their economies and protect against fraudulent traders.
Diplomacy and trade: The role of diplomatic relations between ancient civilizations in promoting trade and commerce.
Commodities and trade goods: A study of the different commodities and trade goods that were most valuable and widely traded in ancient times.
Impact of trade on society: A look at how trade and commerce influenced social structures, cultural exchange, and progress in ancient civilizations.
Barter trade: Exchange of goods and services without using money.
Slave trade: The buying and selling of human beings for labor.
Maritime trade: Trading goods and services via water routes such as rivers, seas, and oceans.
Tax collection: Collection of taxes from citizens or merchants for trading activities.
Tribute trade: Trading goods and services in exchange for tribute, a form of payment to a more powerful country or ruler.
Gift exchange: Exchange of gifts between individuals or groups for building social relationships and alliances.
Long-distance trade: Trade between regions that are far apart and involve the transportation of goods across different regions.
Metals trade: Trading metals like gold, silver, and copper for use in currency, jewelry, and artifacts.
Silk trade: Trading of silk which was considered a luxurious fabric in ancient civilizations.
Spice trade: Trading of spices like cinnamon, saffron, and pepper for food, medicinal purposes and fragrance.
Wool trade: Trading of wool for clothing and textile purposes.