The history of humankind, its cultures and civilizations, is inextricably linked with the development of trade. Cities grew up around markets and empires were built up on the wealth created by all this exchange. Across Asia, the paths of the Silk and Spice Routes brought together the many different peoples of these empires and cities. When meeting to trade, they not only exchanged precious goods, but also ideas and beliefs that shaped each of their cultures. These ideas were expressed in their lifestyles, their arts, and even in the goods they had to sell. By these means, cultures slowly changed, amalgamated, and developed. This book explores this process and the massive contribution made to it by the Silk and Spice Routes. Book jacket.