9 Questions
What is the meaning of the African proverb mentioned in the text?
The proverb means that until recently, the history of Africa (the Lion) was not written by African historians. Instead, it was written by outsiders, and until the Lion has a historian of its own, tales of hunting will always be about the hunter.
What is one of the difficulties that African historians have had to overcome in studying African history?
One of the difficulties that African historians have had to overcome is the lack of written sources that are available. This is largely due to the fact that there is a strong tradition of oral history in Africa, with the past being handed down through stories and songs.
What disciplines have contributed to a greater understanding of African history?
A greater understanding of African history has been achieved through the findings from archaeology, anthropology (the study of human beings), art history and the written sources that are available, in combination with the oral history tradition.
What was the significance of the trading cities of Timbuktu and Gao in West Africa?
They were important centers of commerce and scholarship, serving as hubs for the trans-Saharan trade route.
Name two ancient African civilisations mentioned in the text and describe one significant aspect of each.
The Egyptians: known for their impressive pyramids and advancements in mathematics and engineering. Mali: known for its great wealth, trade routes, and the famous ruler Mansa Musa.
How did Great Zimbabwe reflect the power and influence of the people who built it?
Great Zimbabwe was an enormous stone structure that served as a political and economic center, demonstrating the wealth and architectural prowess of its builders.
What were some of the raw materials exchanged in early African trade and why were they important?
Salt and metal were exchanged in early African trade. Salt was used to preserve food, while metal was used in farming, hunting, and bartering.
What role did the Sahara desert play in early African trade?
The Sahara desert opened up trade routes that linked the Muslim-Arab north with the sub-Saharan African communities further south, and even connecting with routes to India.
What is the significance of trade in African history?
Trade played a vital role in enabling people to provide for themselves and their communities, as well as creating links between different regions, cultures, and civilizations.
Study Notes
Understanding African History
- The African proverb "When an old man dies, a library burns" highlights the importance of oral tradition in African history.
Challenges of Studying African History
- One of the difficulties African historians have faced is the scarcity of written records, making it challenging to reconstruct the past.
Interdisciplinary Approach
- Disciplines like archaeology, anthropology, linguistics, and oral tradition have contributed to a greater understanding of African history.
West African Trading Cities
- The trading cities of Timbuktu and Gao in West Africa were significant centers of commerce and learning, connecting West Africa to the Mediterranean world.
Ancient African Civilisations
- The ancient African civilisation of Nubia was known for its powerful queens, who played a significant role in Nubian politics and economy.
- The ancient African civilisation of Axum was known for its rich tradition of architecture, including the construction of magnificent stone obelisks.
Great Zimbabwe
- Great Zimbabwe, a medieval city in southern Africa, reflected the power and influence of the people who built it, showcasing their advanced engineering and architectural skills.
Early African Trade
- Raw materials exchanged in early African trade included gold, ivory, salt, and cloth, which were important for their economic and cultural value.
- The Sahara desert played a crucial role in early African trade, serving as a barrier and a route for trade caravans.
Significance of Trade
- Trade has played a vital role in African history, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures, and shaping the development of African societies.
Test your knowledge about the history of Africa with this quiz! From ancient times to modern-day events, learn about the rich and diverse history of the continent. Discover how African historians have contributed to shaping our understanding of the past, and explore the significance of oral traditions in preserving cultural heritage. Keywords: Africa, history, Lion, historian, oral traditions.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
