Why was China's demand for silver so high during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries?
A) Silver was believed to be the most beautiful metal.
B) Silver was used to pay taxes and as money in internal markets.
C) Silver was used in decorating porcelains for export.
D) Silver was thought to have medical value.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Silver was crucial in China during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries primarily because it was used to pay taxes and as money in internal markets. The Chinese government required tax payments in silver, which increased the demand for silver as a currency and medium of exchange within the country.

Why Was China's Demand for Silver So High During the Sixteenth