Question

Which of the following best explains a development in the trans-Saharan trade networks in the period 1200–1450 ?


The networks became more dangerous because of religious conflict between Christian and Muslim states.

Option A,The networks became more dangerous because of religious conflict between Christian and Muslim states.

a

The geographic range of the networks increased because of improved commercial practices.

Option B,The geographic range of the networks increased because of improved commercial practices.

b

The networks were increasingly disrupted because of the growing importance of maritime commerce.

Option C,The networks were increasingly disrupted because of the growing importance of maritime commerce.

c

The value of merchandise along the networks increased because of demand for silver and bronze from Muslim states in North Africa and the Middle East.

Option D,The value of merchandise along the networks increased because of demand for silver and bronze from Muslim states in North Africa and the Middle East.

d














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Answer 1

Correct answer: B.

Explanation: Between 1200 and 1450 trans-Saharan trade expanded—new routes, larger caravans and greater regional integration—driven by better commercial organization, the spread of Islam (which eased long‑distance trust and partnerships), and the rise of powerful Sahelian states (Mali, later Songhai) that promoted and protected trade. The other options are incorrect: A (religious conflict) did not make Saharan routes more dangerous overall; C (maritime commerce disrupting the networks) applies later and to Atlantic/Indian Ocean trade, not the period’s Saharan expansion; D misstates the key goods—North African demand was for West African gold and Saharan salt, not primarily silver/bronze.