AFRICA Introduction

The basic info Africa is a continent, not a country. It is made up of many countries (approximately fifty). For centuries was known as the “Dark Continent.” This nickname was a result of lack of knowledge about it.

Why was there a lack of information? Why has Africa historically been behind the world in technology?

Natural Barriers restricted the flow of information and limited contact with other peoples The most important barrier of course was the… SAHARA DESERT

How did the Sahara affect Africa’s development? Sahara Desert helped create an east-west flow of information. New ideas, inventions and technology did not spread south to reach sub-Saharan Africa. Africans did not share in European and Asian advancements until much later. Europe had limited contact with Africans to gain information about them.

Other natural barriers Mountains Jungles Rivers that were difficult to navigate Coasts with few natural harbors Tropical diseases

Geographic disadvantages Lack of quality farmland and resources have also plagued Africa throughout history.

Africa’s Physical Features Sahara Sahel Tropical Rainforest High- lands

Geographic Regions Coastal – climate region along the Mediterranean and the oceans Desert – in addition to the Sahara, there are also deserts in southern Africa Sahel – area just south of the Sahara Desert that is semi- arid and facing the problem of desertification (becoming desert) Savanna – grasslands with few trees, abundant animal life Rainforest – tropical regions, mostly around Congo Basin…Africa has far less tropical rainforest than desert Highlands – Eastern Africa, comfortable climate despite being near equator

We will be studying sub-Saharan Africa (below the Sahara)

Savanna

Desert Homes

Cities of Africa Capitals of Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Mozambique, and Eritrea

Religion

African religious beliefs vary. Islam is the dominant religion of the northern part of the continent. Christianity is the majority of many of the countries south of the Sahara, but Islam is still present in a significant amount. Indigenous beliefs are still practiced – many Africans combine indigenous beliefs with Christianity.

Ubuntu

Africa Unit of Study The slave trade. Colonial period – European take over of Africa and movements for independence. Post-independence and modern day situations. Reading of novel.