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Calicut: The Spice Port of India — Reading Comprehension

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This educational passage examines the crucial role of Calicut (Kozhikode) as a major spice port in ancient India. Students will learn about Calicut's geography, its rise as a bustling trade center, and its interactions with traders from Arabia, China, Africa, and Europe. The passage highlights archaeological evidence, historical records, and the significance of the Zamorin rulers. Activities include a multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, graphic organizers, and a glossary of key vocabulary. The content is aligned with CA HSS 6.2 and CCSS RH.6-8.1, supporting world history and ELA literacy standards. Both an English and Spanish translation are included, along with audio support. Ideal for students studying sites of encounter in ancient civilizations and the global impact of the spice trade.

CONTENT PREVIEW

"Braun Calicut Kozhikode HAAB" by Georg Braun; Frans Hogenberg /
Source: Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

Calicut, also known as Kozhikode, was one of the most important ports in ancient India. Located on the Malabar Coast along the Arabian Sea, Calicut became famous for its role in the spice trade. By the 12th century CE, it had developed into a thriving center of international commerce. Merchants from Arabia, China, Africa, and Europe traveled to Calicut to buy and sell valuable spices such as pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon.

The geographic location of Calicut helped it become a powerful site of encounter for many cultures. The city was ruled by a line of Hindu kings known as the Zamorin. The Zamorin encouraged trade by offering protection and fair treatment to foreign merchants. Archaeological discoveries, such as ancient coins from China and Persia, and descriptions from Arab travelers like Ibn Battuta, show that Calicut was a cosmopolitan city. Its bustling markets were filled with goods from across Asia and Africa, and people spoke many different languages.

Calicut’s importance grew further in 1498, when Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama arrived by sea. This event marked a turning point, as it linked Europe directly to India by ocean. The Portuguese were eager to control the spice trade and tried to take over Calicut’s market. However, the Zamorin and local merchants resisted. Over the next decades, Calicut remained a major trading port, even as European powers competed for influence along the Indian coast.

Life in Calicut was shaped by the spice trade. Rich merchants, skilled artisans, sailors, and laborers all played a role in the city’s busy economy. Spices were not only valuable but also shaped food, medicine, and even religious rituals across the world. The city’s social hierarchy reflected the importance of trade, with merchant families gaining wealth and influence. Calicut’s openness to foreigners created a unique blend of cultures and traditions.

Calicut’s history as a spice port shows how geography, culture, and economic opportunity combined to make it a true site of encounter. Its legacy continues today, reminding us of the power of trade to connect people around the world.

Interesting Fact: In 1406, Chinese explorer Zheng He visited Calicut with a fleet of ships, bringing gifts and establishing diplomatic relations.

This story connects to the broader theme of how ancient ports linked distant civilizations and created lasting cultural exchanges.

Where is Calicut located?

Malabar Coast, IndiaRed Sea, EgyptSouth China SeaMediterranean Sea

Who ruled Calicut in the Middle Ages?

The ZamorinThe PharaohThe MughalThe Roman Senate

Which explorer reached Calicut in 1498?

Vasco da GamaChristopher ColumbusMarco PoloZheng He

Why did traders come to Calicut?

To buy spicesTo find goldTo convert peopleTo build castles

How did the Zamorin encourage trade?

Protected merchantsBanned foreignersClosed the portRaised taxes