Africa developed many diverse societies before European arrival, with some establishing powerful kingdoms through trade and military strength. Between 800-1500 CE, contacts with the outside world increased through growing international trade networks. The spread of Islam profoundly impacted northern and eastern Africa as it was incorporated into the Arab world. New political centers and civilizations arose across the continent, though many areas remained isolated. Powerful West African empires like Mali and Songhay dominated trade in the Sahel region along the southern edge of the Sahara desert. East African coastal cities engaged in extensive Indian Ocean trade, developing Swahili cultures that blended African and Islamic traditions.
West African Kingdoms. Virginia SOL USI.4c. This power point teaches students the importance of the African kingdoms during European exploration. Ghana, Mali, and Songhai each dominated West Africa in sequence from 300 to 1600 A.D. African people and African goods played an important role in European interest in world resources.
Islam in Sub-Saharan Africa Lecture # 7Islam .docxvrickens
Islam in Sub-Saharan Africa
Lecture # 7
*
Islam Today: DemographicsThere are an estimated 1.2 billion Muslims worldwideApproximately 1/5th of the world's population Growth without missionary effortsWhere Do Muslims Live?Only 18% of Muslims live in the Arab world 20% are found in Sub-Saharan Africa 30% in the South Asian region of Pakistan, India and BangladeshThe world's largest single Muslim community is in Indonesia The Top 9: 1) Indonesia, 2) Pakistan, 3) Bangladesh, 4) India, 5) Turkey, 6) Iran, 7) Egypt, 8) Nigeria, and 9) China
Two Main Braches of IslamThere are two main branches of Islam today
Sunni recognize the male heirs of the first 4 elected (according to Muhammad's instruction) caliphs (or spiritual heads) after Muhammad’s death
Shiite recognize the decedents of only the 4th caliphs—Ali (M’s son-in-law & cousin), the only true descendent of Muhammad
In all other ways Sunni and Shiite are very similar
African Civilizations
and the Spread of Islam
What is the geography of Africa?
How might this geography impact Africans?
African Regions
Pre-Islamic AfricaExtremely diverse societies developedPolitical unity was difficult because of terrainBantu: primary language spokenOral traditions; very few written recordsMost communities are preliterate (lacking writing system)Animistic and polytheistic religionsPower of natural forces; ritual and worshipDancing, drumming, divination, and sacrificeWitchcraft; cosmologyAncestors are called uponEconomies vary by regionN. Africa: Islamic trade routes and Mediterranean tradeSub-Saharan: agriculture; ironworking; tribes and herdersAfricans exchanged abundant raw materials (esp. salt) for manufactured goods
Geography of Africa
Africa’s geography was very diverse
& Africans were lived differently based on where
they lived
*
Geography of Africa
The Sahara is the world’s largest desert
& acted as a barrier to separate North Africa from sub-Saharan Africa
Early Societies of Africa
By 750, North Africans were part of the Islamic Empire, converted to Islam, & shared Arabic culture
Early societies of North Africa were influenced by Mediterranean cultures such as the Phoenicians & Romans
Early Societies of Africa
African societies south of the Sahara were isolated & missed out on the cultural diffusion of the Classical Era
Influence of Islam in Africa640-700: Muslims moved west from Arabia across N. Africa to spread IslamRapid conversions by Berbers (Saharan nomads)Spreads along pre-existing caravan routesMaghreb: NW Africa (W of Egypt); Islamized11th-12th centuries: Almoravids and Almohads (ultra-conservative Muslim Berbers) grow in powerReformers: launch jihad (war to spread and protect faith) against “lax” MuslimsAlmohads defeat Almoravids Almohad Caliphate: 1121-1269These groups are essential to the spread of Islam throughout Africa.Why is Islam attractive?Egalitarian; reinforced kings’ authority; equal footing politically/religiously/economica ...
West African Kingdoms. Virginia SOL USI.4c. This power point teaches students the importance of the African kingdoms during European exploration. Ghana, Mali, and Songhai each dominated West Africa in sequence from 300 to 1600 A.D. African people and African goods played an important role in European interest in world resources.
Islam in Sub-Saharan Africa Lecture # 7Islam .docxvrickens
Islam in Sub-Saharan Africa
Lecture # 7
*
Islam Today: DemographicsThere are an estimated 1.2 billion Muslims worldwideApproximately 1/5th of the world's population Growth without missionary effortsWhere Do Muslims Live?Only 18% of Muslims live in the Arab world 20% are found in Sub-Saharan Africa 30% in the South Asian region of Pakistan, India and BangladeshThe world's largest single Muslim community is in Indonesia The Top 9: 1) Indonesia, 2) Pakistan, 3) Bangladesh, 4) India, 5) Turkey, 6) Iran, 7) Egypt, 8) Nigeria, and 9) China
Two Main Braches of IslamThere are two main branches of Islam today
Sunni recognize the male heirs of the first 4 elected (according to Muhammad's instruction) caliphs (or spiritual heads) after Muhammad’s death
Shiite recognize the decedents of only the 4th caliphs—Ali (M’s son-in-law & cousin), the only true descendent of Muhammad
In all other ways Sunni and Shiite are very similar
African Civilizations
and the Spread of Islam
What is the geography of Africa?
How might this geography impact Africans?
African Regions
Pre-Islamic AfricaExtremely diverse societies developedPolitical unity was difficult because of terrainBantu: primary language spokenOral traditions; very few written recordsMost communities are preliterate (lacking writing system)Animistic and polytheistic religionsPower of natural forces; ritual and worshipDancing, drumming, divination, and sacrificeWitchcraft; cosmologyAncestors are called uponEconomies vary by regionN. Africa: Islamic trade routes and Mediterranean tradeSub-Saharan: agriculture; ironworking; tribes and herdersAfricans exchanged abundant raw materials (esp. salt) for manufactured goods
Geography of Africa
Africa’s geography was very diverse
& Africans were lived differently based on where
they lived
*
Geography of Africa
The Sahara is the world’s largest desert
& acted as a barrier to separate North Africa from sub-Saharan Africa
Early Societies of Africa
By 750, North Africans were part of the Islamic Empire, converted to Islam, & shared Arabic culture
Early societies of North Africa were influenced by Mediterranean cultures such as the Phoenicians & Romans
Early Societies of Africa
African societies south of the Sahara were isolated & missed out on the cultural diffusion of the Classical Era
Influence of Islam in Africa640-700: Muslims moved west from Arabia across N. Africa to spread IslamRapid conversions by Berbers (Saharan nomads)Spreads along pre-existing caravan routesMaghreb: NW Africa (W of Egypt); Islamized11th-12th centuries: Almoravids and Almohads (ultra-conservative Muslim Berbers) grow in powerReformers: launch jihad (war to spread and protect faith) against “lax” MuslimsAlmohads defeat Almoravids Almohad Caliphate: 1121-1269These groups are essential to the spread of Islam throughout Africa.Why is Islam attractive?Egalitarian; reinforced kings’ authority; equal footing politically/religiously/economica ...
Read| The latest issue of The Challenger is here! We are thrilled to announce that our school paper has qualified for the NATIONAL SCHOOLS PRESS CONFERENCE (NSPC) 2024. Thank you for your unwavering support and trust. Dive into the stories that made us stand out!
Synthetic Fiber Construction in lab .pptxPavel ( NSTU)
Synthetic fiber production is a fascinating and complex field that blends chemistry, engineering, and environmental science. By understanding these aspects, students can gain a comprehensive view of synthetic fiber production, its impact on society and the environment, and the potential for future innovations. Synthetic fibers play a crucial role in modern society, impacting various aspects of daily life, industry, and the environment. ynthetic fibers are integral to modern life, offering a range of benefits from cost-effectiveness and versatility to innovative applications and performance characteristics. While they pose environmental challenges, ongoing research and development aim to create more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. Understanding the importance of synthetic fibers helps in appreciating their role in the economy, industry, and daily life, while also emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and innovation.
The Roman Empire A Historical Colossus.pdfkaushalkr1407
The Roman Empire, a vast and enduring power, stands as one of history's most remarkable civilizations, leaving an indelible imprint on the world. It emerged from the Roman Republic, transitioning into an imperial powerhouse under the leadership of Augustus Caesar in 27 BCE. This transformation marked the beginning of an era defined by unprecedented territorial expansion, architectural marvels, and profound cultural influence.
The empire's roots lie in the city of Rome, founded, according to legend, by Romulus in 753 BCE. Over centuries, Rome evolved from a small settlement to a formidable republic, characterized by a complex political system with elected officials and checks on power. However, internal strife, class conflicts, and military ambitions paved the way for the end of the Republic. Julius Caesar’s dictatorship and subsequent assassination in 44 BCE created a power vacuum, leading to a civil war. Octavian, later Augustus, emerged victorious, heralding the Roman Empire’s birth.
Under Augustus, the empire experienced the Pax Romana, a 200-year period of relative peace and stability. Augustus reformed the military, established efficient administrative systems, and initiated grand construction projects. The empire's borders expanded, encompassing territories from Britain to Egypt and from Spain to the Euphrates. Roman legions, renowned for their discipline and engineering prowess, secured and maintained these vast territories, building roads, fortifications, and cities that facilitated control and integration.
The Roman Empire’s society was hierarchical, with a rigid class system. At the top were the patricians, wealthy elites who held significant political power. Below them were the plebeians, free citizens with limited political influence, and the vast numbers of slaves who formed the backbone of the economy. The family unit was central, governed by the paterfamilias, the male head who held absolute authority.
Culturally, the Romans were eclectic, absorbing and adapting elements from the civilizations they encountered, particularly the Greeks. Roman art, literature, and philosophy reflected this synthesis, creating a rich cultural tapestry. Latin, the Roman language, became the lingua franca of the Western world, influencing numerous modern languages.
Roman architecture and engineering achievements were monumental. They perfected the arch, vault, and dome, constructing enduring structures like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and aqueducts. These engineering marvels not only showcased Roman ingenuity but also served practical purposes, from public entertainment to water supply.
Operation “Blue Star” is the only event in the history of Independent India where the state went into war with its own people. Even after about 40 years it is not clear if it was culmination of states anger over people of the region, a political game of power or start of dictatorial chapter in the democratic setup.
The people of Punjab felt alienated from main stream due to denial of their just demands during a long democratic struggle since independence. As it happen all over the word, it led to militant struggle with great loss of lives of military, police and civilian personnel. Killing of Indira Gandhi and massacre of innocent Sikhs in Delhi and other India cities was also associated with this movement.
Instructions for Submissions thorugh G- Classroom.pptxJheel Barad
This presentation provides a briefing on how to upload submissions and documents in Google Classroom. It was prepared as part of an orientation for new Sainik School in-service teacher trainees. As a training officer, my goal is to ensure that you are comfortable and proficient with this essential tool for managing assignments and fostering student engagement.
The French Revolution, which began in 1789, was a period of radical social and political upheaval in France. It marked the decline of absolute monarchies, the rise of secular and democratic republics, and the eventual rise of Napoleon Bonaparte. This revolutionary period is crucial in understanding the transition from feudalism to modernity in Europe.
For more information, visit-www.vavaclasses.com
5. Africa in the Postclassical
Period
At time of Roman Empire sub-Saharan Africa on the
edge of major centers of civilizations
Between 800-1500 contacts with the outside world
increased dramatically with the growth of the growing
international trade network
Spread of Islam had profound effects on both those who
converted and those who resisted - until 1450 Islam
provided the major external contact b/w sub-Saharan
Africa and the world
State building, ie. Songhay and Mali (although their
power derived from military strength)
Africa in the post-classical period:
◦ N. Africa and eastern Africa incorporated into the Arab
world
◦ New centers of civilization and political power arose
◦ Much still remained in isolation
6. African Societies: Diversities
and Similarities
Differences in geography, language, religion,
politics, etc. meant that they never unified
Stateless societies
◦ Organized around kinship or other forms of
obligation and lacking the concentration of
political power and authority we normally
associate with the state
◦ Little concentration of authority; did have forms of
government but the authority normally held by a
ruler was held by a council of families or a
community council
◦ Drawbacks- difficult to resist external pressures,
mobilize for warfare, organize large building
projects, etc.
7. Common Elements in African
Societies
Bantu language- provided a linguistic base
(despite regional variances)
Animistic religion- belief in the power of
natural forces personified as spirits or gods;
provided a cosmology- view of how the
universe worked
Veneration of ancestors vital
Diversity in economies- N. Africa stands apart
b/c of contact with Med. World; Sub-Saharan
Africa- settled agriculture, skilled ironwork -
specialization – basis for lively markets and
large cities
8. Arrival of Islam in North Africa
◦ 640-700 CE followers of Muhammad swept across north
Africa from Suez to Morocco’s Atlantic shore- by 670
Muslims ruled Tunisia- by 711 Arab and Berber armies had
crossed into Spain
◦ Conversion took place rapidly, as Abbasid dynasty had
provided political unity
◦ Berbers- peoples of the desert- formed states of their own-
by 11th century reformist movement- Almoravids- moved
south against the African kingdoms of the savanna. 1130
another reformist group- Almohadis- followed same pattern
◦ Islam attractive within Africa
Acceptance of conquerors and new rulers acceptable since all
Muslims were equal in Islam
Tradition of uniting the powers of the religion and the state in the
caliph appealed to some
Despite ideals, practice differed at local levels
9. The Christian Kingdoms:
Nubia and Ethiopia
◦ Adopted Christianity before Roman Empire
◦ Christians of Egypt- Copts- developed rich
tradition in contact with Byzantium- were
able to maintain faith when Egypt was
conquered – eventually spread to Nubia
(ancient kingdom of Kush)
◦ Ethiopian Kingdom- grew from Axum- cut off
from Byzantium by Muslim conquest of Red
Sea coast – so turned inward- King Lalibela
(died 1221) sponsored huge building project-
13-14th centuries- Christian Ethiopian state
10. Kingdoms of the Grasslands
African had three important coasts of contact:
the Atlantic, the Indian Ocean, and the
savanna on the southern edge of the Sahara
Ghana had already formed by the 8th century
by exchanging gold form the forests of west
Africa for salt or dates from the Sahara or
goods from the Med. – probably founded in
3rd century. By 10th century had converted to
Islam
Sahel- grassland belt at edge of the Sahara-
became a point of exchange between the
forests to the south and north Africa- another
“coast” where ideas and goods were
exchanged- several cities developed along
the “coast”
11.
12. Empire of Mali and Sudiata,
the “Lion Prince”
◦ Mali creation of the Malinke people who broke away
from Ghana in 13th century
◦ Rulers supported Islam- in return supporters were
obedient and faithful as the sermons stressed
◦ Agriculture economic basis
◦ Malinke merchants- juula
◦ Sundiata (died 1260) - leader who began Malinke
expansion- he became the mansa (emperor)
◦ Mali grew wealthy from trade
◦ Mansa Kankan Musa (1312-1337)- most famous
successor, made a pilgrimage to Mecca in 1324 and
brought the attention of the Muslim world to Mali.
Brought back Ishak al-Sahili, poet and architect, who
directed the building of several important mosques
(great mosque of Jenne)
13. City Dwellers and Villagers
◦ Towns were very commercial- Power of
the state protected traders
◦ Timbuktu
◦ 80% of population lived off land
◦ Polygamy common
◦ Farmers able to provide for the people
(even with their basic methods)
14. Songhay Kingdom
◦ People of Songhay dominated the middle
areas of the Niger valley
◦ Began to form in the 7th century, by 1010
capital established at Gao on the Niger River
and the rulers had become Muslims, by
1370s Songhay had established its
independence
◦ Sunni Ali (1464-1492) great leader who
forged the empire- by mid 16th century it
dominated central Sudan
◦ 1591 Muslim army from Morocco defeated
the Songhay
15. Political and Social Life in the Sudanic States
◦ Development of a unified state provided framework to
allow existing groups and communities to coexist
◦ Islam provided solidarity and trust to merchants
◦ Muslim concept of ruler as caliph reinforced the
kingship ideas in Africa
◦ Islam in the early stages accommodated pagan
practices and beliefs
◦ Women- some Songhay societies matrilineal and
recognized the role of women
◦ Slavery became a more widely diffused phenomenon
and slave trade in Africa developed on a new scale
In theory, Muslims viewed slave trade as a stage in
conversion but in reality it did not guarantee freedom
16. The Swahili Coast
Islamicized trading cities developed as
a result of contacts with trading
partners from Arabia, Persia, India,
and China
Islam provided a universal set of
ethics and beliefs that made their
maritime contacts easier
In East Africa- Islamization slower to
reach population- compromise
between indigenous ways and new
17.
18. The Coastal Trading Ports
◦ From 1st to 10th century Bantu-speaking
people had made it to the coast and were
mixing with the indigenous groups there
◦ Contacts on the Indian Ocean date back to
2nd century BCE
◦ By 13th century string of urbanized east
African trading ports
◦ Port city Kilwa flourished from 13th-15th
century (had gold from Zimbabwe) and was
African city furthest south that could be used
in one Monsoon season
19. The Mixture of Cultures on the Swahili Coast
◦ Islam- forged bonds of trust among
traders from Asia to Africa
◦ Islam penetrated very little into the interior
among hunters, pastoralist, and farmers
◦ Islamization was, to some extent, class-
based with the upper classes converting
and not the lower classes
◦ Swahili culture- a hybrid of Islam and
African tradition
20. Artists and Kings: Yoruba and
Benin
Yoruba
Nigeria- village of Nok- found objects demonstrating
great artistic skill dating back to 500 BCE-200 CE
Ile-Ife artists worked with terra-cotta and bronze to create
lifelike portraits
Yoruba origins obscure
Yoruba spoke a non-Bantu language of west African Swa
family
Organized in small city-states, developed under authority
of regional kings, who were considered divine
Benin
Large city state of the Edo peoples formed sometime in
the 14th century
By 16th century- city of great population and broad
avenues and artwork
Power of the ruler demonstrated in much of the art work
21. Kingdoms of Kongo and
Mwene Mutapa
◦ 13th-15th centuries CE development of kingdom
Kongo
Agricultural base
From kinship to kingship
Division of labor between men and women
Kingship hereditary but local chieftainships were not
Bantu confederation developed among the farming and cattle-
herding peoples in the region between the Zambezi and Limpopo
rivers
Began building stone houses or Zimbabwe in the 9th
century
Greatest house was the Great Zimbabwe, which was the
center of the kingdom and was associated with the bird of
God
By 15th century centralized state ruled from Great
Zimbabwe
Mwene Mutapa- great king who led period of expansion in
late 15th and 16th centuries. Had dominance of internal
resources like gold, which gave them an advantage in trade
By 16th century internal divisions split kingdom apart but
control of the gold fields still provided a source of power