How did trade impact the development of African kingdoms? It fostered the emergence of an agricultural class and contributed to the decline of city-states, leading to the growth of tribal communities. It also played a role in the increased power of city-states and the subsequent formation of kingdoms.

History · High School · Mon Jan 18 2021

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Trade played a crucial role in the development of African kingdoms, but the impact varied across regions and time periods. It is essential to note that Africa is a vast and diverse continent with a rich history of various civilizations, each with its own unique trajectory.


1. Fostering Emergence of Agricultural Class:

  • Correct Statement: Trade contributed to the development of agricultural practices in African societies, but it did not necessarily lead to the emergence of an agricultural class. In many cases, trade networks facilitated the exchange of agricultural products, helping communities specialize in certain crops or goods.

2. Contribution to the Decline of City-States:

  • Incorrect Statement: Trade generally did not contribute to the decline of city-states. In fact, trade often enhanced the prosperity of city-states along major trade routes. Some African city-states, such as those along the Swahili Coast, thrived due to their participation in Indian Ocean trade.

3. Role in Increased Power of City-States and Formation of Kingdoms:

  • Correct Statement: Trade played a significant role in the increased power of certain city-states, particularly those strategically located along trade routes. However, instead of leading to the decline of city-states, it sometimes contributed to their growth and prosperity. Additionally, the wealth generated from trade could support the formation and consolidation of kingdoms. The Kingdom of Ghana, for example, became a powerful state due in part to its control of trans-Saharan trade routes.

4. Growth of Tribal Communities:

  • Incorrect Statement: Trade typically did not lead to the decline of tribal communities. Instead, it often facilitated cultural exchanges and interactions between different ethnic groups. Some trading societies, like the Yoruba and Igbo, maintained strong ties to their tribal identities while engaging in regional and long-distance trade.