Question

The Ottomans established a strong trading empire in the seventeenth century by... a. invading and conquering territory in Eastern Europe

b. creating the most powerful and well equipped navy of the time period
c. controlling the eastern Mediterranean and numerous overland trade routes
d. bringing an end to the West African caravan trade system across the Sahara Desert

Answer 1

The Ottomans established a strong trading empire in the seventeenth century by controlling the eastern Mediterranean and numerous overland trade routes (c). By doing so, they were able to secure a dominant position in the trade between Europe and Asia and maintain a monopoly over key goods like spices, textiles, and precious metals. In addition to trade, the Ottomans also collected taxes and tariffs from the merchants who used their trade routes, which further strengthened their economic power.

Step-by-step explanation:

.