The ancient trade route that connected the East and West is the Silk Road. Established during the Han Dynasty of China around the 2nd century BC, the Silk Road facilitated trade between Asia and Europe. It was not a single road but a network of interconnected routes that transported silk, spices, precious metals, and other goods. Beyond trade, the Silk Road allowed for the exchange of ideas, culture, and technology, significantly influencing the civilizations involved. It played a crucial role in global history, fostering relationships between diverse cultures and setting the stage for future exploration and trade.