Question

Почему главная роль в международной торговле долгие века принадлежала "морским державам"?

Answer 1

потому что по суше доставлять товары было сложно, опасно, да и много не доставишь на лошадях Морской транспорт давал массу преимуществ для торговли. Во первых, доставка в самые удаленные уголки мира, во вторых, больше товара можно погрузить в трюмы, в третьих, морской путь был короче и более безопасен.

Поэтому до появления железнодорожного транспорта торговля развивалась за счет морского пути.

Answer 2

The Role of Maritime Powers in International Trade

For many centuries, maritime powers have played a central role in international trade. These nations, often referred to as "maritime powers" or "sea powers," have historically dominated global trade routes and exerted significant influence over international commerce. There are several reasons why maritime powers have held this prominent position:

1. Geographical Advantage: Maritime powers are often located in strategic geographic locations that provide easy access to major trade routes and waterways. This proximity to key shipping lanes allows them to establish and control trade networks, facilitating the movement of goods and resources across different regions. For example, countries like the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain had favorable geographical positions that enabled them to dominate trade during the Age of Exploration and colonial era.

2. Naval Superiority: Maritime powers have historically possessed strong naval capabilities, including advanced shipbuilding technologies, well-trained sailors, and powerful fleets. This naval superiority allowed them to protect their trade routes, secure their colonies, and project their influence across the seas. The ability to maintain control over the oceans and protect trade routes was crucial for the success of these nations in international trade.

3. Colonial Empires: Many maritime powers established extensive colonial empires, which provided them with access to valuable resources and markets. These colonies served as sources of raw materials and as captive markets for manufactured goods, enabling maritime powers to accumulate wealth and maintain their dominance in international trade. The British Empire, for example, controlled vast territories around the world, which greatly contributed to its economic and commercial strength.

4. Technological Advancements: Maritime powers have often been at the forefront of technological advancements related to navigation, shipbuilding, and maritime trade. They invested in the development of faster and more efficient ships, navigational instruments, and maritime infrastructure, which further enhanced their ability to engage in long-distance trade. Technological innovations such as the invention of the compass, the improvement of ship designs, and the development of steam-powered vessels revolutionized maritime trade and gave an advantage to these powers.

5. Economic and Financial Strength: Maritime powers have typically possessed strong economies and financial systems, which allowed them to invest in trade ventures, establish trading companies, and finance expeditions. They had access to capital, credit, and financial institutions that supported their trade activities and facilitated the growth of their maritime industries. The accumulation of wealth through trade also contributed to the economic strength of these nations.

In summary, the main reasons why maritime powers have historically played a leading role in international trade include their geographical advantage, naval superiority, colonial empires, technological advancements, and economic and financial strength. These factors allowed them to dominate trade routes, establish global networks, and exert significant influence over international commerce.