The Role of Transport in Formation of the «Advancement Effect» in Ancient and Medieval Societies

Abstract

Transport has played a very significant role in formation and development of ancient and medieval civilisations. At the same time, since ancient times, the transport factor has contributed to advancement of various social communities and societies (manifested in achievement of leadership by the corresponding cities, regions, countries) and formation of the «advancement effect», the essence of which is the possibility of more efficient use of available resources and implementation of existing advantages to ensure successful development.The influence of transport on formation of the «advancement effect» of societies is based on a wide range of socio-economic effects that are generated during movement of goods and passengers. These include, inter alia, adding value to goods as a result of movement, stimulating growth in the volume, scale and efficiency of goods production, disseminating knowledge, ideas and stimulating innovation.Because of the effects generated by transport activities, the centres of this activity develop rapidly and achieve economic, and often also political and cultural leadership. At the same time, transport leadership is associated both with geographical location and with socio-economic (primarily institutional) conditions that provide the opportunity to implement the benefits of the geographical location.The provided analysis covering approximately five thousand years of existence of ancient and medieval civilisations, using many examples, showed that transport indeed played an important role in advancement of certain societies localised within cities, regions and countries. Their advancement to leadership positions was achieved due to the synergy of an advantageous geographical location, innovative development of technical means of transport and institutions that facilitate the efficient conduct of transport activities and development of transport and commercial ecosystems. In turn, the cessation or significant weakening of the beneficial effects of the transport factor led to the loss of leadership positions by societies and the decline of the corresponding economic centres.