WORLD HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -The process of silk production is known as sericulture. It was discovered by the Chinese 5, 000 years ago. According to legend, the princess Xi Lingshi discovered that a cocoon could be unravelled to produce a thread when one dropped into her tea while sat under a mulberry tree.

Detailed explanation-2: -Silk was expensive because it was brought all the way from China, crossing dangerous roads through mountains and deserts. People who lived along the routes demanded payments for allowing the traders to pass through. This increased the cost of silk.

Detailed explanation-3: -Silk was a status symbol in ancient China. Silk was used to weave ceremonial garments and gifts to foreign dignitaries. Silk was so valued in ancient China that anyone found smuggling silkworm eggs, cocoons, or mulberry seeds was put to death.

Detailed explanation-4: -China is the world’s largest and earliest silk producer. The vast majority of Chinese silk originates from the mulberry silkworms (Bombyx mori). During the larval stage of its life cycle, the insects feed on the leaves of mulberry trees.

Detailed explanation-5: -After the Qing Dynasty, anyone was allowed to wear silk clothing, from royalty to peasants. However, in reality, you were unlikely to see most people of society’s lower classes wearing silk, as it remained a costly fabric. Silk was so valuable in ancient China that for a while, it was even used as a currency.