Week 4; Chapter 7-10

One of the most notable themes in these chapters was globalization or the beginnings of it. Countries were now starting to trade with other countries which in turn allowed for the spread of different spices, ideas, religion and unfortunately, disease. Large bodies of water such as the Mississippi and the Indian Ocean Basin acted as transporters of good, immigration of people, and the spread of ideas. Furthermore, empires and cities became more diverse because they offered a safe and stable place for those diverse communities and goods to flourish. For example: Religions such as Christianity spread throughout Europe and into Russia, China's silk industry spread to the Mediterranean and Italy and India was able to contribute the concept of zero and crystallized sugar. The advancements in trade also played a large part in political, family, and financial change.

I very much appreciate the fact that the author did not fail to mention the importance of women during this era. While it is important to note that much of this change may have been, for the surface, led by men, women too  played a very important role. The book states that women were leaders of the family and helped to sustain that while the men were away fighting or trading and a they are key factors in the passing down of language, religious rituals, group knowledge and local history.