Africa: Significant States Flashcards
Great Zimbabwe
Great Zimbabwe was an ancient African city located in modern-day Zimbabwe that was inhabited between 1200 and 1750. It was an example of the sophisticated trading networks and social, political, and architectural structures that flourished in sub-Saharan Africa during the medieval era. At its peak, the city was home to an estimated 20,000 people, making it one of the largest settlements in southern Africa at the time. The city was constructed entirely of stone and featured large stone walls and numerous stone-built structures, including a palace, Great Enclosure, and a number of smaller towers and enclosures. Trade and agriculture were key components of Great Zimbabwe’s economy, and the city was known for its production of gold, copper, and ivory. It was also an important trading hub, and archaeological evidence suggests that it was connected to the Indian Ocean, East African, and Arabian trading networks. Great Zimbabwe was an important political, religious, and economic center in the region and had a large, diverse population. It was divided into two distinct districts, each with their own ruler. By the late 16th century, however, the city had declined and was abandoned by the 1750s.
Swahili City States
During the period of 1200-1750, the Swahili City States emerged along the east coast of Africa as a major trading hub for goods and resources. These city states were characterized by a powerful merchant class, which controlled the economy through monopolies and trade networks. The most powerful and wealthy of these states were Kilwa, Mombasa, and Zanzibar. They developed complex systems of government and taxation, as well as a rich culture and language. These city states were also largely independent, with their own customs and laws. They exported a variety of goods, including slaves, ivory, gold, and spices, to the Middle East and India. Trade was conducted through a network of ports along the coast, with many of the cities being hubs of maritime activity.
Mali
Mali existed as an empire from approximately 1200-1750, encompassing much of West Africa. During this period, Mali was a prosperous, wealthy, and powerful nation. The empire was known for its great accomplishments in both culture and politics, including the expansion of trade and religious life, the development of a complex legal system, and the establishment of a complex network of governance. Mali also maintained a strong military and took part in several military campaigns. During this period, Mali was also known for its impressive architecture and its great cities, such as Timbuktu and Gao. Finally, Mali also had a strong tradition of art and literature, which helped to spread its influence across the region.
Songhay
During the period of 1200-1750, the Songhay Empire was a powerful empire located in West Africa. It rose to prominence in the 15th century, becoming the largest and most powerful kingdom in West Africa, stretching from modern-day Mali, Niger, and Nigeria. During this period, the Songhay Empire was a major trading center, controlling many of the important trade routes across the Sahara. The Songhay people created a unique culture, with a highly developed legal system and powerful councils of scholars and rulers. They also had a strong tradition of religious tolerance, allowing different religions to peacefully coexist in the empire. The Songhay Empire was eventually defeated by the Moroccan invaders in 1591, ending the era of the Songhay Empire.
Asante
During the period of 1200-1750, the Asante people of modern-day Ghana rose to prominence in West Africa and established a powerful kingdom that included numerous vassal states. The Asante kingdom was founded by Osei Tutu and initially arose as a result of the unification of several small states in the region. Asante was known for its centralized government, powerful military, and extensive trading network. The kingdom was also marked by a strong sense of cultural identity, which was especially evident in the architecture, music, and art of the period. Asante was a major political, economic, and cultural force in the region, and its legacy can still be seen today in modern Ghana.
Kongo
The Kingdom of Kongo (or Kongo dya Ntotila) was a powerful kingdom that flourished in Central Africa between the 13th and 18th centuries. It was located in the region of what is now the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Angola, and the Republic of Congo. The kingdom was founded by the Kimbundu-speaking Bakongo people in the late 12th century and ruled by a succession of powerful kings, or manikongos. The kingdom was organized into provinces, each ruled by a provincial governor. The kingdom was connected to the Atlantic world through trade with Europeans, mainly the Portuguese. During this period, Kongo was an important regional power. It was known for its advanced culture and infrastructure, as well as its highly developed judicial system. It also had strong ties to the Catholic Church, which was a major influence in the kingdom. Kongo was invaded by the Portuguese in the 17th century, and its decline began after the death of the last manikongo in 1750. The kingdom was eventually annexed by the Portuguese and its people were forced into slavery. Despite its decline, Kongo’s legacy continues to be felt in the region today.
