The Golden Age of Trade Around the Caspian Sea (8th-10th Centuries)

Abstract

During the period between the 8th and 10th centuries, the Khazar Region was one of the economic and trade centers that played a key role in the world. The Northern Silk Road route, which is an important branch of the Silk Road route, passed through the Khazar Region, extended to the Black Sea via the Caucasus, and reached India via the eastern countries. In this period, the Silk Road route passed through the lands under the administration of various Turkish tribes, and the security of the trade routes was provided by the Turks. The geography where the Khazar Khanate was founded was located at the intersection of the most important trade routes of the period. The Northern Silk Road route was taken under control during the Khazar Khaganate; its control was ensured, and a safe trade atmosphere was created. The Khazar Khaganate provided equal opportunities to all merchants, protecting their lives and property regardless of the said merchant's race or religion. The Khaganate applied commercial law systems and a policy of tolerance specific to each religion. This study examines the economic activities of the countries and people around the Caspian Sea between the 8th and 10th centuries and the role and contribution of the Turks, especially the Khazar Khaganate, in the enormous trade environment that occurred in the Khazar Region during this period.