ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the patterns of change and continuity as economic and political relations transformed throughout recorded time prior to the 20th century. It focuses on such topics as the degree to which the Indian Ocean has been viewed as an integrated, maritime whole or perceived primarily in terms of subregions by various peoples throughout history. The degree to which the Indian Ocean has been seen as economically and politically connected to East and Southeast Asia, as well as to the Mediterranean and Europe; the types of goods that were traded by merchants that relied upon the Indian Ocean as an avenue for commerce between East and West. And the varying relationships and rivalries among the principal maritime powers as they pursued their respective policies in the Indian Ocean region and in the Far East. In conclusion, not withstanding the enormous political, military, economic, and technological changes that took place in the Indian Ocean region.
