The common elements of African Societies and the arrival of Islam Dr. Afxendiou AP World History 9 Sachem North High School

What are some similarities shared by African societies before the arrival of the monotheistic religions?

stateless societies Secret societies language Animistic religion

stateless societies organized around kinship or other forms of obligation no central political power such as government

Secret societies men and women controlled customs and beliefs and controlled ruler. Cut across lineages and created unity. Maintained stability in the community Lineage – a group that traces descent from a common ancestor

Animistic religion- belief in the power of natural forces personified as spirits or gods, belief in witchcraft. Belief in a creator deity whose power and action were expressed through spirits or lesser gods and ancestors.

What does the term Islamization mean? Which parts of Africa were first exposed to Islam? How did Islam enter Africa?

Islamization the spread of the Islamic religion When an area takes on an Islamic character or identity

Which parts of Africa were first exposed to Islam? Egypt and North Africa began in the 7th and 8th cent. by the Umayyad and their conquests Adopted by the Berbers who became Islamized and became part of the Muslim armies that took over Spain

How did Islam enter Africa? Military conquest-North Africa Trade Sub-Saharan Africa – Trans-Saharan East Africa - Indian Ocean trade

Why was Islam attractive to the people of Africa?

Why was Islam attractive to the people of Africa? Equality of all believers Umma-community of believers Tradition of uniting political and religious rule – African rulers liked this and were more likely to adopt Islam – it reinforced their authority Islam accommodates pagan practices societies often stay matrilineal familiarity between men & women freedoms for women

Discuss the spread of Islam into Africa and its cultural impact