The Silk Route (or Silk Road) was a historic trade network that connected Asia, Europe, and Africa, facilitating the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas for over 1,500 years. It played a crucial role in shaping global civilization by linking the East and West through commerce, diplomacy, and cultural interactions.

 Origin & History

• Established: Around 2nd century BCE during the Han Dynasty (China).
• Name Origin: Coined by German geographer Ferdinand von Richthofen in the 19th century, referring to the trade of Chinese silk to the West.
• Active Period: From 2nd century BCE to the 15th century CE, declining due to the rise of sea trade routes and the collapse of the Mongol Empire.