The World of Commerce in 1492.

The article discusses the state of commerce in 1492. The author discusses the role of commerce in civilization, including exports from the Roman Empire and Saracen mercantilism during the Crusades. Maritime trade routes from Asia to Europe and commercial fleets from Venice, Italy are discussed. Trade guilds in Florence, Italy and the exportation of coal and textiles from England are noted. Inventions such as gunpowder, movable type and the naval compass aided the advancement of commerce. Social conditions for sailors and the role of explorers such as Portuguese prince Henry, Christopher Columbus and Vasco da Gama in supporting commerce through naval exploration are discussed.