Final answer:
The Silk Road was a series of trade routes that connected the East and West. Merchants traded goods such as silk, spices, and glassware. The Silk Road was important because it facilitated trade, cultural exchange, and the spread of ideas and religions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Silk Road was a series of trade and cultural transmission routes that connected the East and West. It facilitated strong trade relationships between China, Persia, India, and the Roman Empire. While silk was a major trade item, many other goods such as spices, paper, and glassware were also exchanged. The trading along the Silk Road was done by merchants and traders who traveled via caravans. They would stop at caravansaries along the way to rest and exchange goods. This trading network was significant because it not only fostered economic exchange, but also facilitated cultural interaction and the spread of ideas and religions.