The Phoenician Barter System

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The history of bartering dates all the way back to 6000 BC. Introduced by Mesopotamian tribes, and bartering was adopted by Phoenicians. Phoenicians bartered goods to those located in various other cities across oceans. Babylonians then developed an improved bartering system. Goods were exchanged for food, tea, weapons, and spices. At times, human skulls were used as well. Salt was another popular item exchanged. Salt was so valuable that even Roman soldiers' salaries were paid with it. In the Middle Ages, Europeans traveled around the globe to barter crafts and furs in exchange for silks and perfumes. Colonial Americans exchanged musket balls, deer skins, and wheat. When money was invented, bartering did not end, instead it become more organized. …show more content…

etc. In the 1930's the barter system has been employed in times of financial crisis when currencies are unstable or when there is no common currency. Most of the barter activity is currently facilitated by a variety of websites which serve both general and niche interests such as music swaps, household goods and service swaps, even used boats and used cars. Many of these sites are free to use and make money by charging fees to list/promote the goods available for barter. The buyers and sellers are basically on their own to negotiate a fair exchange and are responsible for making the exchange. As this type of activity has been around for thousands of years, it is no stranger to anyone, regardless of where they grew up. In fact, the GTA's population is 50% foreign born and since the bartering system is much more intense in their birth country than in Canada, many will participate if they have an opportunity. While these people know what this activity is, they can only use barter if it is on-line. Examples of such on-line activities include: Craig's List, Kijiji, Swapsity, U-Exchange, First Canadian Barter Exchange and many

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