Importance of learning maps and locations

I took a test last week in Spanish ,on Spanish speaking countries. The goal of the test was to see our knowledge of Spanish speaking countries, their locations, and the capitals. I passed the test, but I wasn't particularly happy with my grade. I only got a 75, but after going over my test, I understood my mistakes. At first, before taking this test, I thought it was a waste of time to know capitals of countries and locations. But I realize now that its important. Knowing locations is just as important as knowing how to read and write. Although It doesn't help me now, I know one day that it most likely will be important. 

This map is of spanish speaking countries and its capitals