How Did the First Maps Work Without GPS or Satellites?

Long ago, people used stars, rocks, and even drawings on clay to make maps before GPS or satellites existed.

Imagine you're walking in a big park with your friend. You don’t have a phone or a watch, just the sun and some trees. Your friend says, “If we walk straight for 10 minutes, we’ll reach the lake.” That’s like how people made maps long ago!

People would look at the sky to know where they were. The sun told them what time it was, and the moon helped them move from one place to another. They also used landmarks, like big rocks or mountains, just like you use signs in your neighborhood.

Some people would draw what they saw around them on pieces of paper, clay, or even animal skins. These drawings showed the shape of rivers, hills, and forests. It was like drawing a picture of your room so someone else could find their way in it!

They didn’t need GPS, just smart thinking and observation!