In this part of the activity, you will plot elements in the drawing field to create your map of the trade routes used during the time of the Roman Empire. Alternatively, print out this baseline map ©, draw the
elements by hand, and turn in the completed map to your teacher.
Begin by drawing these elements on the base map:
• a key or legend that tells your audience what each symbol, shape, or color on your map represents
(for example, your key may show that a red region indicates the Indian civilization)
• a compass rose, a figure that shows the main directions on your map (north, south, east, and west)
• important geographical features, such as mountains and rivers, along with their names (for example,
you may indicate the Indus River with a blue line)
• colors to indicate the three main trading regions-the Roman Empire; the Asian civilizations of India,
China, and Persia; and the African civilizations of Axum and Kush
Next, research the trade routes that were in use between the Roman Empire and the civilizations of Africa
and Asia. Then draw the major trade routes on the map. Make sure that you plot trade routes that include
these regions and cities:
• Roman Empire
• Egypt
Persia
Arabia
India
Meroe (city in the Kush kingdom)
Adulis (city in the Axum kingdom)
Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean