“The Fatimids had a significant impact on the development of trade during the period from 909 to 1171.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that during the period in question, the development of trade was affected significantly by the Fatimids. Candidates may refer to the economic policies of the Fatimids and/or they may engage in a discussion of how Egypt became the centre of a vast empire that stretched between the Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean. At its heart was Cairo, which was thus elevated to a key centre of trade between the two regions. While other relevant factors, for example other groups’ trading enterprises, may be referenced to provide context, the bulk of the response will remain on the issue raised in the question. Candidates may agree, partly agree or disagree with the statement.