Description
Book Synopsis: The Silk Road is as iconic in world history as the Colossus of Rhodes or the Suez Canal. But what was it, exactly? It conjures up a hazy image of a caravan of camels laden with silk on a dusty desert track, reaching from China to Rome. The reality was different--and far more interesting--as revealed in this new history.
In The Silk Road, Valerie Hansen describes the remarkable archeological finds that revolutionize our understanding of these trade routes. For centuries, key records remained hidden--sometimes deliberately buried by bureaucrats for safe keeping. But the sands of the Taklamakan Desert have revealed fascinating material, sometimes preserved by illiterate locals who recycled official documents to make insoles for shoes or garments for the dead. Hansen explores seven oases along the road, from Xi'an to Samarkand, where merchants, envoys, pilgrims, and travelers mixed in cosmopolitan communities, tolerant of religions from Buddhism to Zoroastrianism. There was no single, continuous road, but a chain of markets that traded between east and west. China and the Roman Empire had very little direct trade. China's main partners were the peoples of modern-day Iran, whose tombs in China reveal much about their Zoroastrian beliefs. Silk was not the most important good on the road; paper, invented in China before Julius Caesar was born, had a bigger impact in Europe, while metals, spices, and glass were just as important as silk. Perhaps most significant of all was the road's transmission of ideas, technologies, and artistic motifs.
The Silk Road is a fascinating story of archeological discovery, cultural transmission, and the intricate chains across Central Asia and China.
Details
Discover the untold secrets of one of the greatest trade routes in history with "The Silk Road: A New History". This captivating book by Valerie Hansen unveils a wealth of remarkable archaeological finds that have revolutionized our understanding of the ancient Silk Road. Delve into the hidden records and captivating stories of the merchants, envoys, pilgrims, and travelers who traversed this vast network of trade routes.
Unveiling the truth that has long been obscured, Hansen takes you on a captivating journey through the Taklamakan Desert and explores seven magnificent oases along the way. Step into these cosmopolitan communities where people from diverse cultures and religions converged, fostering an environment of tolerance and exchange. From Xi'an to Samarkand, witness the cultural kaleidoscope that brought together Buddhism, Zoroastrianism, and countless other beliefs.
Contrary to popular belief, silk was not the sole driving force behind the Silk Road. As you immerse yourself in Hansen's meticulously researched narrative, you'll uncover the profound impact of inventions like paper, which originated in China long before the Roman Empire even existed. Marvel at the significance of metals, spices, and glass, which played pivotal roles alongside silk in shaping the world as we know it.
However, the true essence of the Silk Road lies beyond physical goods. It is a conduit for the transmission of ideas, technologies, and artistic motifs that transcended borders. Hansen masterfully weaves together the tale of archeological discoveries, cultural exchange, and the intricacies that bound Central Asia and China for centuries.
Embark on a captivating journey through time and space with "The Silk Road: A New History". Unearth the rich tapestry of stories and insights that will transport you back to an era of vibrant exchange and the forging of connections that continue to shape our world today.
Don't miss your chance to embark on this fascinating exploration. Order your copy of "The Silk Road: A New History" today.
Discover More Best Sellers in Social Sciences
Shop Social Sciences
The People's Republic of Amnesia: Tiananmen Revisited
$16.22
Social Sciences - The People's Republic of Amnesia: Tiananmen Revisited
Hyperculture: Culture and Globalisation
$16.95
Social Sciences - Hyperculture: Culture and Globalisation
Young Children′s Personal, Social and Emotional Development
$39.66
Social Sciences - Young Children′s Personal, Social and Emotional Development
Queering Black Churches: Dismantling Heteronormativity in African American Congregations
$29.95
Social Sciences - Queering Black Churches: Dismantling Heteronormativity in African American Congregations
Unrequited Toil: A History of United States Slavery (Cambridge Essential Histories)
$19.50
Social Sciences - Unrequited Toil: A History of United States Slavery (Cambridge Essential Histories)
