However, most slaves were women who worked as domestic servants. Their situation depended very much on the attitudes of the master and mistress of the house. If a domestic slave had a child by her master, the child was a free person. Slaves could also acquire their freedom when their masters died. 4.6.2 Trade and the marketplace Trade Trade was a large part of Islamic culture. Large caravans of camels carried goods long distances, often across difficult terrain such as deserts and mountains. Sultans organised the building of depots about 30 kilometres apart along these routes where the cameleers could rest from the long journey and be protected from thieves. These depots were called caravanserais. They were surrounded by strong walls and towers with a relatively small entrance. Each contained rooms for travellers to rest and, in the centre, there was a small mosque for the daily prayers.
SOURCE4 An artist’s reconstruction of a caravanserai
G
F
D
A
A
B
E
C
A Winter quarters provided protection from cold weather. B The narrow entrance gate protected against thieves. C Camel caravans move in to rest for the night. D Domes allowed light into the rooms. This idea was further developed in the domes for mosques. E Gutters redirected water away from the building. F Raised mosques were important for prayers, usually made five times a day. G This accommodation was suitable for summer.
Bazaars Once goods reached the major cities, they were sold in bazaars (markets). The Kapalıçars¸ı (Covered Bazaar, also known as the Grand Bazaar) in Istanbul is typical of these. Although it has undergone many changes due to earthquakes and fires, it has still preserved the same basic layout. It is located just one kilometre from the shore and at the start of the major road running east through the city.
Jacaranda Humanities Alive 8 Victorian Curriculum Third Edition
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