1. African Societies During the Classical Era

3. During the Classical Period did the people of Africa think of themselves as “African”? –Many different tribal groups –Different cultures, societies, civilizations

4. What influence did Arabia have on Northeast Africa? –Domesticated camel created a new way of life for the Berber peoples Nomadic and pastoral Made trans-Saharan travel & commerce possible

5. Kingdom of Meroë

6. –Women had positions of power Matrilineal descent – power passed down through the mother’s line Ruled as monarchs independent of male authority Queen Amanishaketo

7. –Very wealthy & highly developed Extensive trade networks –North/South & East/West -iron weapons -cotton cloth -other luxury goods ivory, gold, ostrich feathers, tortoise shells

8. Decline of Kingdom of Meroë –Deforestation Wood needed for charcoal for iron smelting –Erosion from overgrazing –Constant battles with nomads

9. Axum – What led to its success? –Highly productive agriculture Plow farming Wheat, barley, millet, teff –Commerce in Red Sea and Indian Ocean –Important port city Adulis Attracted merchants