After reading the source below, why do you think the merchants of the port city used this method of conducting business? (1 point) Responses to create a system of trading alliances to create a system of trading alliances to influence domestic trading to influence domestic trading to create a bond between merchant and host to create a bond between merchant and host to forge a sense of community for the port city

The merchants of the port city likely used this method of conducting business in order to create a bond between merchant and host. By engaging in hospitality and forming personal relationships with their hosts, the merchants were able to establish trust and goodwill, increasing the likelihood of successful business transactions. Additionally, by forging a sense of community for the port city, the merchants could potentially garner support and cooperation from other members of the local population, further enhancing their business opportunities.