, , the Roman trade network grew because the Empire expanded and in these regions of expansion were farm crops, example: Egypt provided large quantities of crops. Trade grew with areas that were wealthy in precious metals and jewels. The trade network was by sea and on by land. Land trade was facilitated by the excellent network of roads which provided reliable means of the transportation of goods and other materials. Sea trade with an expanded fleet of ships travelled all over the Mediterranean and even to Briton and Ireland. There are few good natural ports in Italy, so the Romans built an artificial port only 16 miles away from Rome where the Tiber reaches the sea.
The main reason why the Spanish built the St. Augustine fort in Florida was "to protect their sea route to the Caribbean" since this was a crucial port for many engaged in trade within the Caribbean.
