The box lists examples of
Goods that were banned from being sold along most Arab trade routes
Supplies that were made by Arab salves and then sent to Europe and Asia
Products that were first invented and introduced to Arabs by European merchants
1. Alcohol and other intoxicating substances: Alcohol consumption has been traditionally prohibited in many Islamic countries, and thus the sale of alcoholic beverages was banned along Arab trade routes.
2. Pork and pork products: Pork is considered haram (forbidden) in Islam, and it was not allowed to be sold or consumed along Arab trade routes.
3. Certain types of textiles and clothing: Some Arab trade routes restricted the sale of silk, satin, and other luxury fabrics that were associated with non-Muslim cultures.
4. Religious artifacts and idols: Certain religious artifacts and idols were prohibited from being sold along Arab trade routes, as they were against Islamic teachings.
5. Human trafficking and slave trade: Although not a "good" in the traditional sense, the trade of slaves was banned along most Arab trade routes as it went against Islamic principles. However, Arab slaves themselves were often used to produce goods that were then exported to Europe and Asia.
6. Guns and gunpowder: The sale and possession of firearms and gunpowder were restricted along Arab trade routes to maintain control and prevent conflicts.
7. Printing press and books: European merchants introduced the printing press and books to Arabs, but these early publications faced bans and censorship due to their potential for disseminating knowledge that could challenge traditional Islamic teachings.
8. Coffee: Coffee was first introduced to Arabs through trade with European merchants. Initially, it faced opposition and bans due to concerns about its stimulating effects and potential for addiction, but eventually it gained widespread popularity.
9. Tobacco: Tobacco was another product brought to Arabs by European traders. It faced bans and restrictions initially for similar reasons as coffee, but eventually became widely consumed.
10. Modern technologies and machinery: Various technological advancements and machinery introduced by European merchants were initially banned or viewed with suspicion along Arab trade routes, as they were seen as potential threats to traditional ways of life.