How did changes in control of the Silk Road affect Europe's decisions about trade?

Changes in control of the Silk Road, particularly during the rise and fall of various empires, significantly impacted Europe's trade decisions by shifting trade routes and altering access to valuable goods like silk and spices. As control changed hands, European powers sought to find alternative routes, leading to the Age of Exploration and the eventual discovery of sea routes to Asia. This shift not only reduced reliance on overland trade but also spurred competition among European nations, ultimately fostering global trade networks. The desire to bypass intermediaries and establish direct trade relationships drove innovations in navigation and maritime technology.