Question

Describe a major factor in the longevity of the Swahili city states influence.
A. The trade network that connected the city states to other powers in the Indian Ocean
B. The number of cities along the coast overwhelming any competitors
C. The weather along the coastal area allowing for an increase in farming
D. The wide variety of goods that they offered

Answer 1

A major factor in the longevity of the Swahili city-states' influence is **A. The trade network that connected the city-states to other powers in the Indian Ocean**.

The Swahili city-states, which thrived from around the 9th century onwards along the East African coast, were integral to a vast trade network that connected Africa to the Middle East, India, and beyond. This network facilitated the exchange of a variety of goods, including gold, ivory, and spices, as well as cultural exchanges, which helped to establish a rich cosmopolitan society. Their strategic location and maritime capabilities enabled them to act as intermediaries in trade, thereby enhancing their economic and cultural significance in the region. This interconnectedness with other trading powers not only fostered prosperity but also ensured the resilience and influence of the Swahili city-states over the centuries.