How did the Phoenicians influence language today?
A. by creating precise maps of cultural language interactions as they traded
B. by creating the world's first paper and making written records portable
C. by creating an alphabet that linked symbols to words in a spoken language
D. by creating an alphabet that linked symbols to sounds in a spoken language
C. by creating an alphabet that linked symbols to words in a spoken language
C. by creating an alphabet that linked symbols to words in a spoken language
The answer is C. The Phoenicians influenced language today by creating an alphabet that linked symbols to words in a spoken language.
To get this answer, you can follow these steps:
1. Start by understanding the context. The Phoenicians were an ancient civilization known for their maritime trade and seafaring skills.
2. Consider each option and evaluate its relevance to language influence.
A. The creation of precise maps of cultural language interactions would be important in understanding language spread, but it doesn't directly involve influencing language itself.
B. The invention of paper and the portability of written records would have facilitated the transmission and preservation of language, but it doesn't specifically address language influence.
C. The creation of an alphabet that linked symbols to words directly impacts language, as it establishes a standardized written form that can be learned and used by others. This option seems more relevant.
D. The creation of an alphabet that linked symbols to sounds would be important for phonetics and pronunciation, but it doesn't directly address language influence.
3. Compare option C, which links symbols to words, to the other options. This option seems to align better with the evidence of Phoenician influence on language.
Based on this analysis, the correct answer is C: by creating an alphabet that linked symbols to words in a spoken language.