2.0. The rise of the Kingdom of Kongo Flashcards
What was the primary reason for the rise of the Kingdom of Kongo?
Geography, forming alliances, migration, Kanda system, conquest, trade and commerce, attitudes to slavery, political and administrative centralisation, territorial expansion
These factors contributed to the kingdom’s growth and stability prior to Portuguese contact.
What was the capital of the Kingdom of Kongo?
Mbanza Kongo
Mbanza Kongo was later renamed São Salvador by the Portuguese.
Who was the first ruler of the Kingdom of Kongo?
Nimi a Nzima
He was instrumental in forming alliances and expanding the kingdom.
In what year did King Nzinga a Nkuwu become Joao?
1491
What was the significance of the Kanda system in the Kingdom of Kongo?
It structured the political and social organization of the kingdom.
Fill in the blank: The Kingdom of Kongo was founded around ______.
1390 CE
True or False: The Kingdom of Kongo reached its peak in the mid-1600s.
True
What were the main provinces of the Kingdom of Kongo?
- Mbamba
- Soyo
- Nsundi
- Mpangu
- Mbata
- Mpemba
Each province had its own significance and role within the kingdom.
How did the Kingdom of Kongo integrate new territories?
Through conquest and the establishment of royal provinces governed by members of the royal family.
What was the main economic activity in Nsundi province?
Iron mining
Nsundi was crucial for producing agricultural tools and weapons.
What role did trade play in the Kingdom of Kongo’s development?
It facilitated economic growth and political power through the exchange of goods and tribute.
Who succeeded Joao after his death in 1506?
Afonso
What challenges did the Kingdom of Kongo face in maintaining power?
Internal rivalries and succession struggles.
What was the significance of the marriage alliance between Nimi a Nzima and Mpuku a Nsuku?
It formed a key alliance that contributed to the early expansion of Kongo.
Fill in the blank: The Kikongo speaking people are associated with the ______ of the Kingdom of Kongo.
founders
What was the role of the Manikongo?
King of Kongo and central authority in political matters.
How did geography influence the rise of the Kingdom of Kongo?
Provided natural defenses and facilitated trade routes.
What was the impact of Portuguese contact on the Kingdom of Kongo?
Introduced new technologies and trade opportunities but also led to exploitation.
What was the outcome of the expansion efforts by Kongo settlers?
They established authority over older Mbundu populations and integrated them into the kingdom.
What was the significance of the province of Mbata?
It acted as a buffer state and was politically important due to its relationship with the manikongo.
What led to the decline of Soyo’s control by Kongo?
Became a port for European goods and slaves, enhancing its own power.
What were the key products from Matamba and Ndongo?
- Iron
- Salt
- Cattle
These commodities were vital for trade and sustenance.
