Which ruler incresed trade on the Silk Road more than ever before?
a. Ogedei
b. Kublai Khan
c. Genghis Khan
d. Tolui
To determine which ruler increased trade on the Silk Road more than ever before, we'll need to evaluate each option. Here's a breakdown of each ruler and their contributions to the Silk Road trade:
a. Ogedei: Ogedei Khan was the second Great Khan of the Mongol Empire, succeeding Genghis Khan. While he expanded the Mongol Empire and maintained control over the Silk Road, there isn't significant evidence to suggest that he significantly increased trade on the Silk Road.
b. Kublai Khan: Kublai Khan, the grandson of Genghis Khan, is widely known for his efforts to promote trade and international relations. He established the Yuan Dynasty in China and encouraged trade along the Silk Road by ensuring safe passage, protecting merchants, and establishing a unified and stable currency system. Kublai Khan's reign witnessed a significant increase in trade and cultural exchange, making him a strong contender for increasing Silk Road commerce more than ever before.
c. Genghis Khan: Genghis Khan, the founder and the first Great Khan of the Mongol Empire, certainly played a significant role in opening up the Silk Road for trade. Through his military campaigns and conquests, he gained control over vast territories, allowing for increased trade between East and West. While Genghis Khan laid the foundation for trade on the Silk Road, he may not have directly overseen its expansion to the extent that later rulers did.
d. Tolui: Tolui was one of Genghis Khan's sons, and although he contributed to the Mongol conquests and subsequent control over Central Asia, there isn't substantial evidence to suggest that he played a pivotal role in increasing trade on the Silk Road.
Considering the options given, the ruler who significantly increased trade on the Silk Road more than ever before is b. Kublai Khan. His policies and efforts led to a flourishing of trade and cultural exchange, making him a crucial figure in the history of the Silk Road.