Letter 22 | Sea Voyages and Trade (In English) | Letters From a Father to His Daughter

In this letter, Nehru discusses the importance of sea voyages and trade in ancient times, focusing on the Phoenicians, an ancient people from the Mediterranean coast. He describes how early boats, likely simple hollowed tree trunks with oars and sails, were used for adventurous and often dangerous sea travel. These voyages, though perilous, were driven largely by the desire for trade and wealth.

Nehru then explains the evolution of trade, which began with simple bartering between tribes, where goods were exchanged directly, such as cows for grain. Later, gold and silver were used as a medium of exchange, simplifying trade. This development eventually led to the use of coins, further easing trade and commerce. He emphasizes the complex nature of modern trade, with goods traveling vast distances across countries, and contrasts this with the inefficiencies of sending Indian cotton to England for manufacturing and then importing the finished cloth back to India. Nehru advocates for using locally made products, like khadi, to support domestic industries and reduce dependence on foreign goods. In the end, Nehru reflects on the role of money, explaining that it is merely a tool for exchanging goods, and highlights the folly of those who hoard wealth without understanding its purpose.