Hel The Silk Road played a major role in the development of classical cultures. The main purpose of the route was to provide a means for transporting goods--material objects--for sale. However, the most significant effect of the Silk Road was cultural. Civilizations who used the route for trade also brought back new ideas, beliefs, and customs. They used the money they earned while on the Silk Road to build legacies impressive enough that they still affect us today.

Does anything like the Silk Road exist today? If so, will it have the same impact on culture that we see with the Silk Road? On a sheet of scrap paper, make a list of things from life in the 21st century that might have an impact on us that is similar to the impact of the Silk Road on classical civilizations. Your list can consist of objects, locations, events, trends, or activities.

Once you have your list, ask your teacher how to participate in an online discussion for this course. Choose one item from your list, describe it in the online discussion, and explain your reasons for thinking of this item or event as a 21st century Silk Road. Then, read some of your classmates' answers and respond to their ideas.