Trade networks facilitated the spread of Buddhism beyond its birthplace.

Evidence

Here, on the rich and strategically important island of Java, at the monument of Borobudur, is the supreme example of how the network of maritime trade allowed Buddhism to spread beyond the boundaries of its birth and become a world religion. — Neil MacGregor, A History of the World in 100 Objects, 927

Categorization

• XREF: This connects with the broader historical context of Buddhism’s evolution and influence across cultures, particularly with India. — connects to: The Indian Ocean facilitated extensive trade between multiple cultures. — Neil MacGregor, A History of the World in 100 Objects, 50; Trade networks spread Islam across Africa and Southeast Asia more than armies did — Norenzayan, Ara, Big gods - how religion transformed…, 202
• corroborated: 2 independent passages support this claim — Neil MacGregor, A History of the World in 100 Objects, 927