how can you tell that the image below is a political map?

As an AI language model, I cannot directly perceive or analyze images. However, I can guide you on how to identify a political map by describing its typical features:

1. Borders and Boundaries: A political map usually displays clearly defined international and regional borders between countries and sometimes states or provinces within countries. These boundaries are drawn with solid lines.

2. Country Names and Capitals: Political maps often include the names of countries and their respective capital cities. The names are placed within the specific territorial divisions of the map.

3. Major Cities: Important cities within each country may also be mentioned or marked on the map, typically with varying sizes of dots or circles.

4. Legend or Key: Political maps generally have a legend or key that explains the symbols and colors used in the map. It helps to understand the meaning of different markings or representations, such as differentiating between cities, capitals, rivers, or even disputed territories.

5. Lack of Physical Features: Political maps usually focus on territorial divisions and boundaries rather than physical geography like mountains, rivers, or topography. The emphasis is on state, national, or international borders rather than the natural landscape.

It's important to note that without the actual image, I cannot provide a specific analysis. If you have an image that needs verification or interpretation, you can describe its features, and I'll try my best to assist you.