How was trade thought of before capitalism?

by lcav

After ~240 years since Wealth of Nations, capitalism and the idea that a merchant seeks profit from their efforts feels like a natural state of humanity. I understand the idea of bartering and exchanging for need, but how did people perceive trade strategically? How did people attempt to get rich without force?

Enrico_Dandolo

Can you elaborate? What periods are you talking about? What do you mean about perceiving trade strategically?