How did the Mongolian Empire impact trade?

The Mongolian Empire significantly facilitated trade across Asia through its vast territory and innovative governance structures, such as the Yassa code of law, which provided a stable environment conducive to commerce. Under Mongol rule, the Silk Road saw an increase in the movement of goods, ideas, and cultures among various regions, connecting East and West like never before. The Mongols established a system of relay stations, known as the Yam, which improved communication and the transportation of goods over long distances. This enhanced safety for traders traveling along these routes, as the Mongolian military presence provided protection against banditry.

Moreover, the Mongols promoted the exchange of not just goods, but also technology and knowledge, leading to cultural exchanges that enriched societies across the vast Empire. This integration of cultures contributed significantly to the revival of trade after periods of fragmentation and instability in the regions they conquered. Overall, the Mongolian Empire played a pivotal role in transforming trade dynamics in the 13th and 14th centuries, marking an era known as the Pax Mongolica, where peace and stability facilitated increased economic activity across Eurasia.