The Trade Lands was named by Emperor Amakir because that's exactly what it was for, land that was used for trade. The city Shinnaric was the main hub that connected sea travel from Yaldica to the western regions of Morgoth. The natural resources of the region are plentiful for supporting large populations. Lots of soil rich fields for wheat and vegetables. After a failed rebellion to install a monarchy, Emperor Amakir split the land into a series baronies. To maintain loyalty he gave financial leniency in exchange for larger levies. At this time the barons where numerous and small, but over a few decades that number would shrink. Business turned into warfare, as the barons scrambled to set up companies to profit off resources within their domains. Many ended up selling their titles and businesses to payoff financial debts, while others lost everything and became swept into indentured servitude to pay off debts. In the end of this strife only a handful of barons stood, the many titles absorbed into a few conglomerates. Emperor Amakir was told of the doings but did nothing, he saw this as a benefit for his empire and let the barons construct a financial sector for him.