Abstract:
Coastal Karnataka, in the early medieval period, was known for the role of indigenous traders apart from the Arab traders. The pre-European or non-European trade can be divided into pre-Vijayanagara and post-Vijayanagara periods. In the pre-Vijayanagara period, the region experienced the role of the traders and trade guilds. The Arab and Jewish traders are mentioned in the context of this region. Inter-regional and International trade network emerged. In the post Vijayanagara period, there was emergence of interaction with the Europeans such as the Portuguese, Dutch, and the English. There was continuity and change between pre-European and European trade. Indian traders continued to play important role in the pre-colonial period.
