Rulers of Axum gained power and wealth by (constructing churches adopting christianity building monuments such as stalae controlling trade routes)

Answer 1

The rulers of Axum gained power and wealth primarily by controlling trade routes. Axum was strategically located along important trade networks connecting the Roman Empire, Arabia, and India. This allowed them to facilitate and tax trade, thus accumulating wealth. Additionally, while they did adopt Christianity and construct monumental architecture such as stelae and churches, these actions were more reflective of their cultural and religious identity rather than primary sources of their initial power and wealth.