Chapter 11 Kingdoms & Trading States of Africa 730 B.C. – A.D. 1591 Chapter Focus: How did trade & geography influence the development of the kingdoms and trading states of Africa?*

Geography Africa is the worlds second largest continent Wide range of climates, vegetation, and terrains Played a major role in development Provided numerous cultures

African Geography Africa is home to the worlds largest desert…. Sahara* 2500 B.C. – climate change* desertification: fertile land becomes desert* Forced people to migrate* Spread of ideas & skills (cultural diffusion!!)

Geography Most of Africa’s population lives in areas known as: Savannas – grassy plains* More temperate Easier to grow vegetation Settled farmers & nomadic herders*

Geography Migration and Trade were often difficult in Africa due to: Cataracts/ Waterfalls Extreme heat Rough Terrain (desert, rain forests, & high plateaus)

Trading Trading in Africa was made easier by the use of Camels* “Ships of the Desert”* Carried heavy loads, required less water Great Rift Valley – flat passageway into Africa Seas – overseas trade routes Ex.) Mediterranean & Red Sea

Farming As farming increased in Africa around the year A.D. 100 Farming skills improved and created “surpluses” Surpluses led to increased trading

Trading Items traded included: Cotton, nuts, clothing, slaves Two products dominated the Sahara trade:* Gold (West Africa) and Salt (Sahara)* Salt served many purposes: preserved health in hot climate & preserved food ~ Some areas traded a pound of gold for a pound of salt

African Society Basic unit of society - Family Nuclear Family - Consists of parents and children living and working together (small society)* Extended Family – parents, children, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins…

African Society Each family belongs to a lineage – groups that claim a common ancestor* Heritage was either… Patrilineal – traced through the father’s side* OR Matrilineal – traced through the mother’s side*