# Barbarous Nations Barrier

## Definition

The political and security obstacles created by regions inhabited by peoples considered "barbarous" or hostile, which prevent safe trade between distant markets. These barriers significantly increase the costs and risks of long-distance commerce, limiting market extent.

## Source Chapter

Book I, Chapter 3

## Context

Smith raises the question of how goods could be safely transported through the territories of "so many barbarous nations" between London and Calcutta, illustrating how political instability and security concerns can obstruct market development even when natural transportation advantages exist.

## Economic Domain

Regulation

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