why was written language likely developed?

1. it allowed trade over long distances.
2. it allowed ritualistic prayers to be written for all to read.
3. it provided law codes for the public.
4. it gave soldiers a common way to communicate military instructions prior to battle.
i think it's #2

It is difficult to determine the exact reason for the development of written language as it likely arose from a combination of factors. However, it is generally believed that one of the main reasons for the development of written language was to facilitate trade and communication over long distances (option 1). This allowed for the recording and sharing of information, such as trade agreements, inventories, and contracts.

While option 2 may have been a motivation in some cases, it is unlikely to be the primary reason for the development of written language.

Options 3 and 4 are more specific and do not capture the broader purpose of written language, which is to enable communication and record information. They might have been later developments or uses for written language, but not the initial reason for its development.

The development of written language was likely not primarily driven by the reason mentioned in option 2, which is ritualistic prayers. While writing was later used to record religious and spiritual texts, the initial development of written language had other, more practical reasons.

Option 1, which states that written language allowed trade over long distances, is a historically significant reason. Writing facilitated communication, record-keeping, and the exchange of information between different groups and cultures, enabling trade and economic growth.

Option 3, which suggests that written language provided law codes for the public, is also accurate. Written laws allow for consistency, clarity, and accessibility to all members of a society, ensuring fair governance and proper administration of justice.

Option 4, stating that written language gave soldiers a common way to communicate military instructions prior to battle, is also plausible. Written instructions would have allowed for better organization, coordination, and understanding among soldiers, contributing to more effective military campaigns.

Therefore, based on the provided options, it can be concluded that options 1, 3, and 4 are likely reasons why written language was developed, while option 2 seems less likely to have been the primary driver.

The likely reason for the development of written language is not just limited to option #2, which is the ability to write ritualistic prayers for all to read. It was actually a combination of multiple factors. Let's break down the options:

1. Trade over long distances: Written language allowed for the recording of transactions, inventories, and contracts, making it easier to facilitate trade and communicate information between traders who may not speak the same language.

2. Ritualistic prayers: While written language did enable the recording of religious texts and prayers, it also served many other purposes beyond spirituality.

3. Law codes for the public: Written language played a crucial role in the development of legal systems by creating written laws, rules, and codes that could be referenced and shared with the public. This allowed for a more standardized and transparent legal system.

4. Military communication: Written language provided an efficient method for military leaders to communicate complex military instructions to their soldiers, ensuring clear and accurate transmission of orders prior to battles.

Considering these points, option #1, #3, and #4 were also important factors contributing to the development of written language, not just option #2.