Understanding World Societies:
Printed Page 295

Chapter Chronology

> CHAPTER 10 STUDY GUIDE

PUT IT ALL TOGETHER

Now, take a step back and try to explain the big picture. Remember to use specific examples from the chapter in your answers.

GEOGRAPHY AND AGRICULTURE

  • How did geography and climate shape the spread of agriculture in Africa?
  • What common characteristics were shared by settled agricultural societies across Africa? What role did Bantu-speaking peoples play in linking diverse African societies?
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THE TRANS-SAHARAN TRADE

  • What role did West Africa play in international commerce between 800 and 1500 C.E.?
  • How did the growth of the Trans-Saharan trade stimulate political and religious change in West Africa?
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KINGDOMS AND EMPIRES

  • How did Islam shape the political development of West Africa?
  • Compare and contrast Ethiopia and the East African city-states. How would you explain the differences you note?
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LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD

  • How has the paucity of indigenous written records shaped our understanding of early African history?
  • How might the advent of the Atlantic slave trade in the sixteenth century and European imperialism in Africa in the nineteenth century have affected Western assumptions about conditions in Africa prior to 1500?
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