AP European History Practice Exam 2025 – Your Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

The relationship highlighted in the passage shows that control of trade routes was essential for military advantage. Throughout history, nations and empires have recognized that economic strength directly influences their military capabilities. Access to trade routes not only provided necessary resources, but also allowed for the movement of troops and supplies. By securing these routes, a military could disrupt the enemy’s supply lines, gain access to critical materials, and enhance its overall strategic positioning. This connection between economics and military strategy has been evident in numerous historical conflicts, where control over trade networks was a determining factor in the success or failure of military campaigns. The emphasis on trade routes underscores the idea that economic factors play a pivotal role in shaping military outcomes.