世界史关键时刻·英语30篇（1）

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汉代丝绸之路的联结

Emperor Wu of Han sent Zhang Qian westward in 138 BCE to seek allies against nomadic Xiongnu tribes.
Though captured for ten years, Zhang returned with vital knowledge of Central Asian kingdoms and resources.
The Han then secured oasis cities, built watchtowers, and stationed troops along caravan routes.
Silk, lacquer, and iron traveled west while horses, grapes, walnuts, and Buddhism entered China.
Merchants rarely journeyed the full distance but passed goods through networks of intermediaries.
Diplomats, monks, and refugees used these roads to share languages, medicines, and astronomical ideas.
The route strengthened Han authority but also exposed borders to disease and migration pressures.
Its legacy lies not in trade alone, but in sustained cultural dialogue across Eurasia.