Trade in Chang’an and the Silk Road

By: Ben Derrigo

            Trade flourished through the Tang Dynasty because of Chang’an and the Silk Road. The Tang Dynasty was the Golden Age of trade. Trade was a big deal during the Tang Dynasty because inventions, art, and more were expanded around China. New ideas were sent around China because of the Silk Road and Chang’an. The Silk Road was a very long route that went through China to Europe. Both Chang’an and the Silk Road were the two biggest aspects of trade during the Tang Dynasty. These two places that helped trade were strong and well built. Both of them had a purpose and that was to trade. Both Chang’an and the Silk Road were amazing landmarks because of trade. Trade was a clear element to the success of the Tang Dynasty.

            Chang’an was the capital of Tang Dynasty and all most trade took place in the city. “Under the Tangs, Chang'an became a thriving metropolis and center of international trade filled with merchants, foreign traders, and missionaries from numerous religions, acrobats, artists and entertainers (Facts and Details).” The quote explains that the city expanded and grew because of trade. The city was filled with so many trade markets to buy, sell, and trade items. The city was amazing because it represented what the Golden Age of the Tang Dynasty was. Trade was filled through the streets of Chang’an. Chang’an was one of China’s greatest cities because of its trade.

            Another key aspect to trade during the Tang Dynasty was the Silk Road. The Silk Road ran through China and Europe. The road is of course known because of trade. “That this time-honored trade route reached its apex in the Tang Dynasty can be ascribed to many reasons (Travel China Guide).” The Silk Road was one of the reasons that the Tang Dynasty was called the Golden Age. The Silk Road was doing extraordinary in trade because the economy flourished. The emperors of the Tang Dynasty watched over the Silk Road. Trade was also improving along the Silk Road because Europe was willing to trade with China a lot. Overall, both Chang’an and the Silk Road were extraordinary landmarks mostly because of trade. Trade was outstanding during the Tang Dynasty because it grew each and every day.