Braudel's Mediterranean

Fernand Braudel's concept of the Mediterranean refers to a historical idea that views the region as a unique, interconnected world shaped by its geography, climate, and long-term social and economic patterns. He emphasized that the Mediterranean's coastal cities, trade routes, and cultural exchanges created a vibrant, dynamic civilization that influenced Europe, Africa, and Asia over centuries. Braudel highlighted the importance of understanding these deep, persistent structures—like trade networks and environmental factors—rather than just short-term events, to grasp the true complexity and resilience of Mediterranean societies throughout history.