Which of the following animals was used for transportation along the Silk Road?

• A. Elephants
• B. Llamas
• C. Camels and horses
• D. Bulls

Answer: (C)

The use of camels and horses for transportation along the Silk Road is emblematic of the region's trade and travel methods. Camels, particularly the Bactrian camel (which has two humps), were especially well-suited to the harsh desert conditions of Central Asia, where water sources were scarce and temperatures varied greatly. They can carry heavy loads over long distances without needing frequent water, making them ideal for the lengthy caravan journeys.

Horses played a critical role as well, offering speed and agility. They were used not only for riding but also for carrying goods, enabling quicker travel between trading outposts. Together, camels and horses facilitated the movement of a wide range of goods, including silk, spices, and precious metals, as well as cultural exchanges between different civilizations.

In contrast, while elephants and llamas are significant animals in other regions, they were not used for the same purposes along the Silk Road. Elephants are primarily associated with Southeast Asia and certain parts of India, and llamas are native to South America, making them impractical for the transcontinental routes of the Silk Road. Bulls, while useful in agriculture, did not serve as efficient transport animals for long-distance trade on the Silk Road due to their limited endurance and