Archaeologist Dr. Robert Lee argues that ancient Mediterranean trade networks were more extensive than previously believed, reaching as far as India and Scandinavia by 1000 BCE.
Which discovery would most directly support Lee's expanded view of ancient trade?
Mediterranean pottery shards containing Baltic amber and Indian pepper residue found in 3000-year-old Egyptian sites, with DNA analysis confirming non-local origins
Ancient ships were capable of long voyages
Trade was important to ancient economies
The Mediterranean Sea connected multiple civilizations
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. Physical evidence + scientific confirmation of distant origins proves the extent of trade.
- Context clues: Lee claims links to "India and Scandinavia by 1000 BCE."
- Evidence evaluation: Baltic amber (Scandinavia) + Indian pepper + DNA confirmation.
- Verify: Specific materials from claimed regions in dated context.
💡 Strategy: Claims about geographic extent need physical evidence with confirmed origins.