DE 7.1 Explore - China’s Great Deserts

Front

How did the geographical features of the Gobi and Takla Makan Deserts influence the development of ancient China?

Back

They acted as natural barriers, protecting China from invasions.

Front

Analyze the impact of the Gobi Desert's terrain on ancient trade routes. Why was it challenging for traders to cross this desert?

Back

The desert's rocky terrain made travel slow and arduous.

Front

Considering the strategic importance of the Takla Makan Desert, why might ancient Chinese rulers have found it difficult to expand their empire westward?

Back

The desert's size and dunes made it difficult for armies to cross.

Front

Evaluate the role of camel caravans in ancient trade across the Gobi Desert. Why were they preferred over other forms of transportation?

Back

Camels required less water and could endure the harsh desert conditions.

Front

What reasoning might ancient Chinese leaders have used to justify not attempting to conquer lands beyond the Gobi and Takla Makan Deserts?

Back

The deserts provided a natural defense that was more valuable than expansion.