The Indian Ocean through the Ages

摘要

As the third largest body of water in the world, the Indian Ocean beholds a mystique and uniqueness all of its own with an extraordinarily diverse and fascinating history. Presently, the Indian Ocean waters cover an estimated 73.5 million square kilometers, incorporating half the world's latitudes, seven of the world's time zones and 48 independent hinterland, littoral and island countries consisting of 2.6 billion people or 39% of the world's population.