Question

Why did kings want to control the Silk Route?

Answer 1

Hint:
Anyone who wants to control anything has a motive. The motive can be of acquiring more power or riches or defeating another kingdom or expanding their territories. Think what would kings get controlling the silk route.

Complete step by step solution:
The reasons as to why kings wanted to control the silk route were to collect taxes from the traders using the route for travelling, to receive gifts and also traders use to give tributes to the kings. Such were the reasons to control the Silk Route.

Now coming to the Silk Route and its significance, the Silk Route was a historic trade route that dated from the second century BC until the 14th century AD stretching from Asia to the Mediterranean, China, India, Persia, Arabia, Greece, and Italy.

It was called the Silk Route because of the heavy silk trading that took place in that period. Silk originated in China initially. China had a monopoly on silk production for a long time. In addition to silk, the route facilitated the trade of other fabrics, spices, grains, fruits and vegetables, animal hides, wood and metal work, precious stones, and other items of value. Travelers used camel or horse caravans and stayed in guest houses or inns while travelling. The Silk Route brought many products that impacted big on the West. Many of these commodities had their roots in China. Commodities included gunpowder and paper where paper was the most important.

Note:
The Silk Route was popular during the Tang Dynasty from 618 - 907 AD. Travelers had the freedom to among a number of land and sea paths to reach their desired destination. These routes evolved along with territorial boundaries and changes in national leadership.