Chapter 19 Human Geography of Africa

► East Africa- “Cradle of Humanity”, because of the number of prehistoric human remains found in the region. ► Hominids- humans that walk upright.

East Africa ► Scientists believe that the world’s first humans lived in this area.

Colonization ► In the 1800s European nations wanted to colonize and control parts of Africa to obtain the raw materials/resources. ► Berlin Conference- was setup to divide Africa peacefully. ► Europe’s division of Africa is often cited as one of the root causes of the political violence and ethnic conflicts in Africa in the 20 th century.

East African Economies ► Farming and tourism (wildlife parks) are the foundation of East Africa’s economy. ► More than 160 different ethnic groups live in this region.

Health Care in Africa Health Care in Africa ► AIDS is the most critical health problem in the region. It began to spread in the 1980s and 1990s.

North Africa ► During the Middle Kingdom, Egyptian god- kings, called Pharaohs, ruled Egypt. ► Pyramids were built to house the Pharaohs remains after they died, because it was believed that they ruled after death.

Egyptians ► Pioneered geometry. ► Famous for their medicine. ► Trade and travel along the Nile River, Mediterranean and Red Sea help spread these concepts.

Religion ► Islam is the main religion of most North African countries. ► It is based on the teaching of the prophet Muhammad.

Economy of North Africa ► Early in history it was based on agriculture- Cash crops and mining. (Nile River) ► Centered around oil today.

Central Africa  European first began their African colonization in Central Africa.  Belgians and French colonized Central Africa  The slave trade occurred because Europeans wanted slaves for their plantation in the Americas.

King Leopold II  King of Belgium  Wanted to develop Central Africa  Paved way for the Berlin Conference  Used forced labor to gather rubber, palm oil, ivory and other resources

 Borders set by Europeans; disrupted long- standing systems of government in Africa, did not consider ethnic regions and grouped traditional enemies together.  Today Central Africa is still struggling to get on it’s feet. Most leaders have been corrupt.

Education  Great hope is being placed to get education as a main priority of the region.  Problems: Few teachers, high drop out rate and a shortage of secondary schools.  Through education they hope to slow the spread of AIDS, the Ebola virus, cholera and other diseases.

South Africa and Botswana  What resources provided an economic basis for South Africa and Botswana?  How do the two countries compare today in terms of social divisions and distribution?  What might help both countries achieve greater economic growth?