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Export Controls: A Long and Winding History of Controlling Trade in Sensitive Goods

Emmett Mitchell

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A Historical Timeline Of Export Controls, From Ancient Times To The Present Day Export Controls: A Contemporary History

Export controls are government regulations that restrict the export of certain goods and technologies from one country to another. These controls are typically implemented for reasons of national security, foreign policy, or economic protection.

Export Controls: A Contemporary History

by Bert Chapman

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Language	:	English
File size	:	1759 KB
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Print length	:	445 pages

The history of export controls is long and winding, dating back to ancient times. In the early days, export controls were used to protect national security by preventing the export of weapons and other military goods to potential enemies. Over time, export controls have been used for a variety of other purposes, including protecting human rights, promoting economic development, and combating terrorism.

Ancient Times

The earliest known export controls were implemented in ancient China during the Qin dynasty (221-206 BC). These controls were designed to prevent the export of iron and other strategic materials to rival states. Similar controls were implemented in other ancient civilizations, such as Greece and Rome.

Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, export controls were used to protect the economic interests of guilds and other trade organizations. For example, the Hanseatic League, a powerful trading alliance in northern Europe, used export controls to protect its monopoly on trade in certain commodities.

Early Modern Era

In the early modern era, export controls were used by European powers to protect their colonies and secure access to raw materials. For example, the British government implemented export controls on wool in the 16th century to protect the domestic wool industry.

19th Century

The 19th century saw a significant increase in the use of export controls for national security purposes. The United States, for example, implemented export controls on arms and ammunition in the 1860s to prevent the Confederacy from obtaining weapons during the Civil War.

20th Century

The 20th century saw a further expansion of the use of export controls. After World War I, the United States and other Allied powers implemented export controls on Germany to prevent it from rebuilding its military. After World War II, the United States and the Soviet Union implemented export controls on each other to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons.

21st Century

In the 21st century, export controls have become increasingly complex and sophisticated. New challenges, such as the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and the rise of terrorism, have led to the adoption of new export control measures.

Export controls are a powerful tool that can be used to achieve a variety of policy objectives. However, export controls can also be controversial, as they can restrict the free flow of goods and technologies. It is important to carefully consider the costs and benefits of export controls before implementing them.