1. Great Zimbabwe
A.D – 1500

2. Location
Southwest of Kilwa
Between the Zambezi and Limpopo rivers

4. History & the People
‘Zimbabwe’ comes from a Shona term meaning “stone buildings”.
Most people were poor farmers.
Those who were better off had large herds of cattle.
Powerful leaders’ families lived in impressive stone- walled structures

6. The Rise of the Great Zimbabwe Empire
Factor One: Rich Land
The land full of plains of fertile soil and minerals.
Factor Two: Gold Trade
The empire controlled the gold from the Zambezi River and the gold trade.

7. Great Zimbabwe’s Decline
The exact reason for Great Zimbabwe’s decline after hundreds of years is unknown
Possibilities:
Trade routes moved to favor other centers
Farmers may have worn out the soil

8. Review What value did Great Zimbabwe’s land have?
How was great Zimbabwe’s society organized?
What were two possible causes for the collapse of Great Zimbabwe?
What signs of Great Zimbabwe remain today?