How might patterns of trade and cultural diffusion have differed if Rome, not China, had learned the secret of making silk??

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Explanation:

The Romans would have controlled the trade meaning the ottomans, and the Persians, would have blocked ways going east, as China did not have an strong army, it was because of Rome they had a route goring to China, and Venice would have never been built, and there would be less Chinese in the world.

the authority to tax.