Seafaring Research Paper

What can we learn about trade through Seafaring

Throughout Ancient civilisations the prevalence of seafaring allows for the multi-faceted nature of trade and the interconnections of these societies to be uncovered as well as illustrate the significance of trade through earlier periods of history. Trade is commonly defined as the “exchange of material goods, typically of equal value.” This essay will be focusing primarily on the Aegean Bronze Age: (3000-1000 BCE) and most notably the seafaring people of Crete; the Minoans. Seafaring allows trade across seas and through this it is evident that trade is not just for materialist gain, however it can affect cultures, economy, break down geographical barriers of land trade and allows alliances
One such example is the Ulu Burun shipwreck, which occurred in the late 14th century BCE. The ship was found with exotic items such as glass ingots and copper, alluding to the idea of a term called king’s trade, which was typically trade between elites in society demonstrating material wealth. Other types of trade were Sailors’ trade, which was typically smaller scale items and finally Entrepreneurial trade, which would be individuals trying to sell their own produce and agriculture but could extend to pottery and other handmade goods. Seafaring, particularly for the Minoans, saw massive economic benefits, as during this period of history it is evident through archaeological discoveries of luxurious materials such as gold and artwork carved in ivory that economic unity and prosperity was achieved on the island of Crete. Ultimately trade in the Aegean Bronze Age was between far reaching nations in pursuit of luxurious and exotic goods and proved pivotal for islands such as Crete and was a demonstration of wealth and
This attests to notion that seafaring and maritime trade had the capacity to influence civilisations in a multitude of ways. One of the most documented trading partners of Minoans was the Egyptians, and through extensive iconography and artworks more can be learnt about trade and its influence on culture, religious ceremonies and artwork. One such example is the evidence of typical Minoan artwork being found in Egypt such as an acrobat on a bull, which bears a striking resemblance to the “Bull Leaper of Knossos,” a famous Minoan piece of art. Both artworks contain a bull with similar patterns and features, with a man performing what looks like acrobatics on the back of a bull. From these two artworks, one of which found in Egypt and the other found on Crete, both convey the idea that seafaring and trade allowed for cultural adaptation due to the interconnections of the two vastly different