The+Silk+Road

The Silk Road was a network of trade routes across Europe, Asia, and North and East Africa. The main purpose of the routes was to trade for silk, since China was known for the silk. The Silk Road was created by traders wanting to find easy routes to get from country to country. It was established in 100DC and lasted until the 15th century. But after the 15th century, traders used newly-discovered sea routes in Asia that were quicker and easier to use.

Famous people from history used this route, including: Alexander the Great, Marco Polo (the man, //not// the game), and other great leaders during the usage of the Silk Road. They used this route to easily get to their enemies and trade their possessions. Though the road is known for its silk trading, it is also known for its vast culture that was carried place to place. Buddhism was one of the beliefs that came to China because of the Silk Road. Art and philosophies also went from city to city because of the road.

Today, the Silk Road is still in use. Though most traders use other transportation, some roads that follow the historical route are still being used. China feels that keeping at least a small trade route using the Silk Road is important, so that a great part of history won't die away. While some routes are for trading, others are for tourists to walk down its paths.