An ancient trade route between China and the Mediterranean Sea extending some 6,440 km (4,000 mi) and linking China with the Roman Empire. Marco Polo followed the route on his journey to Cathay.
The business of buying and selling or exchanging items.
Taking control of a people or place through military force.
The crime of betraying one's country, especially by attempting to kill the sovereign or overthrow the government.
A complete enumeration of a population.
New and original, typically something considered good.
A person belonging to a tribe or group that is considered uncivilized.
(1371-1433?) Chinese naval explorer who sailed along most of the coast of Asia, Japan, and half way down the east coast of Africa before his death.
A thin, beautiful pottery invented in China; one of China's 3 major exports
A policy of remaining apart from the affairs or interests of other groups, especially the political affairs of other countries.
The walled section of Beijing where emperors lived between 1121 and 1924. A portion is now a residence for leaders of the People's Republic of China.