The Mongol and Mali Empires were two of the largest and most powerful empires in history. They both spanned vast territories and had diverse populations. Despite their many differences, these two empires shared a number of similarities in their trade practices.
Similarities in Trade Practices
One of the most striking similarities between the Mongol and Mali Empires is their use of trade routes. Both empires controlled extensive trade networks that stretched across their vast territories. These networks allowed goods to flow from one part of the empire to another, and they also facilitated trade with other regions of the world.
The Mongols were particularly skilled at using trade routes to their advantage. They established a vast network of驛站, or post stations, along the Silk Road. These stations provided travelers with food, water, and shelter, and they also served as centers of trade. The Mongols also used their control of the Silk Road to impose tolls on traders, which generated a significant amount of revenue for the empire.
The Mali Empire also controlled a number of important trade routes. The most important of these was the trans-Saharan trade route, which connected North Africa with West Africa. The Mali Empire controlled the southern end of this route, and it profited greatly from the trade in gold, ivory, and other goods.
Another similarity between the Mongol and Mali Empires is their use of currency. Both empires used paper money, which was a relatively new invention at the time. Paper money was more convenient than coins, and it allowed the empires to more easily finance their trade activities.
The Mongols were the first empire to use paper money on a large scale. They issued paper money called “chao” in the 13th century. Chao was widely accepted throughout the Mongol Empire, and it helped to facilitate trade and commerce.
The Mali Empire also used paper money, which was called “mitkal.” Mitkal was issued by the king of Mali, and it was used to pay for goods and services throughout the empire. Mitkal was not as widely accepted as chao, but it still played an important role in the Mali Empire’s economy.
Impact of Trade on the Mongol and Mali Empires
Trade played a vital role in the development of both the Mongol and Mali Empires. It allowed the empires to acquire goods and services that were not available in their own territories. It also helped to spread new ideas and technologies throughout the empires.
The Mongols were particularly adept at using trade to strengthen their empire. They used their control of the Silk Road to acquire new weapons and technologies, which gave them a military advantage over their enemies. They also used trade to acquire luxury goods, which helped to maintain the loyalty of their subjects.
The Mali Empire also benefited greatly from trade. The gold trade made the empire one of the richest in Africa. This wealth allowed the Mali Empire to build a powerful army, which helped to protect the empire from its enemies. The Mali Empire also used its wealth to build mosques, libraries, and other public works.
Conclusion
The Mongol and Mali Empires were two of the most successful empires in history. Their success was due in part to their effective trade practices. Both empires used trade routes to acquire goods and services, and they both used paper money to facilitate trade and commerce. The wealth generated by trade allowed both empires to build powerful armies and to make significant advances in culture and technology.
