The Silk Road

<jats:p> <jats:italic>The Silk Road</jats:italic> explores the historical significance of the Silk Road, an ancient trade network active from the 2nd century BC to the 14th century CE. This book is part of the <jats:italic>Chinese Civilisation</jats:italic> series which seeks to inform, inspire and ignite curiosity about one of the world's oldest civilisations. </jats:p> <jats:p>“The Silk Road, featured by commercial trade and cultural communication, dates back to 138 BC when Zhang Qian (a Chinese official who served as an imperial envoy in the late 2nd century BC during the Han Dynasty) was dispatched to the Western Regions (referring to west of Yumen Pass, most often Central Asia). It derives its name from the silk trade along the route … Apart from boosting ethnic unity and regional cooperation, the Silk Road is a carrier to make people know more about the ancient Chinese culture.” - From the Preface</jats:p>