Why were spices, silk, coffee, and tea so important to the Europeans?
Before the 15th century, spices, silk, coffee, and tea were all imported to Europe through trade routes in Egypt and Persia. The goods passed through many merchants and by the time they reached the consumer, the prices were extremely high. Spices were used in cooking, medicine, and perfumes. Coffee and tea were an alternative to plain water. Silk was a must-have fabric for royalty.
