The answer is all of the above
The answer is b
The world should support the protesters
The previous route was very dangerous and was also expensive to traverse. Early travelers encountered dangers such as war zones and diseases. They also had to cross deserts and mountains to get to their destination. Progress was made when a new route via the sea was discovered. This limited the perils that were once faced.
Merchant because I said so
i think it's the patriarch, sorry it's so late. but this will help other people.
:)