Geography and Trade on the Arabian Peninsula

History Alive! Chapter 7

Vocabulary Review Arab  Arabian Peninsula  Islam  Muhammad  Caravan 

Trade and the Arabian Peninsula The Arabian Peninsula was located at the very heart of trade between China, India, Persia, Europe, and Africa. As a result, Arabians became the “middlemen” of medieval trade.

Trade by land: caravans Arabs used camels to carry their goods across the deserts on the Arabian Peninsula. Camels could go for days without drinking water and could survive the difficult journey.

"Isle of Graia Gulf of Akabah Arabia Petraea“ by Louis Haghe

The impact of trade on Arabia Knowledge Ideas Technology Goods

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Impact of trade

Knowledge: {Mathematics} Algebra and Trigonometry brought from India  Arabic-Hindu numerals 

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(10 − = 81x 2 x + 100 = 101x Muhammad ibn Mūsā al-Khwārizmī

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Mathematics

Impact of trade

Knowledge: {Astronomy} Medieval Arabs used a Ptolemic (Ptolemy was a Roman) concept of the universe to make astronomical observations. They also built several observatories to analyze and observe constellations and planetary movement. They were also influenced by India, China, and Greece.

Astronomical instruments

Quadrant

Torquetum

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Astronomy

Impact of trade

Knowledge: {Medicine} Arabs were especially innovative in the area of medicine. They established many medical schools and hospitals, specialized in optics and blood circulation. Also, they were the first to refute the European theory of humorism. Add this to your concept map.

Technology: {Engineering} Watermills, subterranean aquaducts, bridges, dams, canals, and clocks are all unique engineering feats boasted by medieval Arabian culture.

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Technology: {Paper and Publishing}

China was the first to manufacture and print on paper (as opposed to parchment). Arabs in the medieval period learned the process from the Chinese. This led to the development of libraries and numerous books produced in the Islamic world.

The Diamond Sutra

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Ideas: {Islam} As a result of its central location, the religion of Islam was able to spread extensively throughout the world. It is now one of the most predominant religions in the world.

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Goods Silks (China)  Jewels, cotton, spices, (India)  Ivory, gold (Africa)  Glass, gold (Rome) 

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