Trading Town in Pastoral Zone
How did the coexistence of agriculture and pastoralism contribute to the economy of Mari?
The symbiotic relationship between agriculture and pastoralism in Mari facilitated a mutually beneficial exchange of goods and services. Pastoralists provided products such as young animals, cheese, leather, and meat in exchange for grain and metal tools from farmers, enriching the local economy.
What were some of the challenges and conflicts faced by herders and agriculturalists in Mari?
Tensions often arose between herders and agriculturalists over resource access, particularly water. Conflicts emerged when herds grazed on sown fields, damaging crops, or when herders raided agricultural villages for stored goods, highlighting the complexities of managing cohabitation in a diverse landscape.
How did nomadic influx influence the sociopolitical landscape of Mari?
Nomadic groups migrating into Mari, such as the Akkadians and Amorites, played a significant role in shaping its sociopolitical dynamics. Some rose to power, establishing their rule and contributing to the cultural mosaic of Mesopotamia, underscoring the fluidity of identity and governance in the region.
What were the key commodities traded through Mari, and why was it a prosperous trading hub?
Mari served as a crucial trading hub for goods such as wood, copper, tin, oil, and wine, facilitating commerce between southern cities and mineral-rich uplands. Its strategic location on the Euphrates enabled efficient transportation of goods, while taxation of trade further bolstered its economic prosperity.
How did the kings of Mari govern and manage the influx of herders into their kingdom?
The kings of Mari maintained vigilance over the influx of herders, monitoring nomadic camps and implementing measures to mitigate potential conflicts or raids. Historical records and correspondences between rulers and officials attest to the governance strategies employed to ensure stability and security within the kingdom.
Chapter 1: Trading Town in Pastoral Zone| Class 11 History Notes
Situated upstream on the Euphrates, away from the fertile southern plains, Mari emerged as a pivotal trading hub in the ancient world. Its strategic position facilitated commerce between pastoral communities and agricultural settlements, fostering a vibrant exchange of goods and services.
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