The Silk Road was predominantly controlled by the empires of the Han, Byzantine, and later the Mongol Empire, for centuries. The Han Dynasty established trade routes that connected China to the Mediterranean, facilitating the exchange of silk, spices, and other goods. As the unique and highly sought-after product, silk became synonymous with these trade routes. The Byzantine Empire further advanced trade across Asia, while the Mongol Empire united large territories, enhancing trade security and cultural exchange. This control over trade routes allowed these empires to influence commerce, culture, and diplomacy between East and West throughout history.