World History & Geography Encyclopedia
Zhang Qian's journey west
A meeting of civilizations across mountains
Year138 BCE – 126 BCE
RegionChina · Chang'an
Category文明交流
Importance★★★
Overview
In 138 BCE, Emperor Wu of Han sent Zhang Qian west to seek an alliance with the Yuezhi against the Xiongnu. His difficult journey expanded Han knowledge of Central Asia and helped later travel and exchange.
Historical impact
Eurasian networks gradually expanded, changing how goods, technologies and ideas spread.