Marco Polo: The Venetian Explorer's Journey

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Recommended: Essays of Travel

Will Dunn

Mr. Leite
Western Civilization
19 November 2017

Marco Polo
The name Marco Polo isn’t just famous for the child's water game. Marco Polo is one of the most famous travelers and traders in history. In my paper, I will discuss his historic travels and his life. Marco Polo was born around 1254, most likely in Venice, Italy. He died at about 70 years of age in 1324 after a full life, well lived. Marco Polo was a Venetian explorer well-known for his merchant travels and the famous book Description of the World, which tells the story of his travels, experiences and adventures in Asia.
Despite his great fame, not much is known about the early years or personal life of Marco Polo. We do know he was born into …show more content…

When the Polos arrived in Venice, the city was at war with a rival city, Genoa. Marco Polo joined the Venetian Navy in 1298. Marco rose to the rank of gentleman-commander. During a battle with Genoa, Marco Polo was captured and imprisoned. By this time he was famous, and as a result, was treated with unusual courtesy for a prisoner. He was released within a year. It was during his time in prison that Marco Polo told his story to a popular writer, Rustichello of Pisa. Rustichello wrote the now famous book, Description of the World. This manuscript became the most widely read book in Europe and inspired later explorers like Christopher …show more content…

Marco Polo described the Khan’s postal system and use of paper money, both of which were later adopted by European countries. Polo detailed many other Chinese customs, including the mining and use of coal - which he called “black stones.” The book led to more contact and trade between Europe and Asia. Many believe the book also helped bring Chinese inventions, such as the compass and printing to Europe. History has proven Marco Polo’s maps and stories of local customs to be remarkably accurate. This famous book is Marco Polo’s most important contribution to history. Not much is known about his life after his return to Venice. He died in his home in Venice on January 8, 1324. He was buried at the Church of Lorenzo in Venice, and remains to this day one of Italy’s most celebrated

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