What 2 goods did the European traders want from Asia? What were these goods used for?
In the 1400s, the most popular trade items were spices and silk.
Today, Europeans import lots of toys and electronics from China, Japan, and India. While England was an imperial power, it relied on India for cotton and rice and tea.
However, if you're asking about the goods traded in the 1400s, check this site.
http://www.tanap.net/content/universities/india.cfm
European traders wanted two main goods from Asia: spices and silk.
To find out what these goods were used for, we can start by researching the historical context of European trade with Asia during the Age of Exploration.
During this time, Europe was going through significant changes, including the Renaissance and the start of globalization through overseas trade. European traders saw immense economic potential in sourcing goods from Asia, as the region was known for its rich resources and unique products.
1. Spices: Spices were highly sought after by European traders. The primary reason for this was that spices played a crucial role in preserving food. In the days before refrigeration, spices like pepper, cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and ginger were used to flavor and preserve food, making it last longer. In addition to culinary purposes, spices were also valued for their aromatic properties and used for medicinal purposes and in the production of perfumes.
2. Silk: Silk was another valuable commodity that European traders desired. Silk was uniquely produced in Asia, particularly in China, at the time. The fine threads of silk were woven into luxurious and highly desirable fabrics that were renowned for their softness, durability, and shimmering appearance. Silk became a symbol of wealth and social status in Europe. It was used to create elaborate clothing, luxurious textiles, and tapestries, making it an essential material in the fashion industry and for interior decoration.
In summary, spices were used for food preservation, flavor enhancement, medicinal purposes, and perfumes. Meanwhile, silk was used for the production of high-quality fabrics and textiles, catering to the growing demand for luxurious clothing and interior decoration in Europe.