Khmer+Trade+and+Technology


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Khmer's Trade and Technology
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Thus, as seen in the history of other ancient civilizations, we also encounter conflicts that can arise over resources and trade. Klare notes, for example, a timeless resource that has caused discontent among nation-states is the use and management of water systems. Likewise, minerals and timber resources are also commodities that have created conflicts among nations. In the case of the Angkor Empire, the civilization had to contend with border tensions on all sides. the Khmer's system of irrigation pathways and reservoirs was very intricate and unique in its scale when compared to the surrounding nation-states. At its peak efficiency, the original hydraulic systems around Angkor Wat began to gradually divert valuable nutrients to neighboring cities that had more advanced hydraulic infrastructure. **
 * As at least one million inhabitants were living within the ancient city’s boundaries, the cultivation of the land surrounding land for agricultural use was undoubtedly a large task. “At its peak, some 50 million rice paddies stretched through 12.3 million acres of land,” writes Coates. Forest related resources, including such items, as elephants, ivory, feathers, spices, and woods, became major components in trade for the Khmer with their Indian and Chinese neighbors.

(shown in red are the common trade routes)

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