Describe a major factor in the longevity of the Swahili city-states' influence. (1 point)

Question

• the trade network that connected the city-states to other powers in the Indian Ocean
• the wide variety of goods that they offered
• the weather along the coastal area allowing for an increase in farming
• the number of cities along the coast overwhelming any competitors

Answer 1

The trade network that connected the Swahili city-states to other powers in the Indian Ocean was a major factor in the longevity of their influence. The city-states, located along the East African coast, were strategically positioned to engage in trade with diverse regions such as India, Arabia, Persia, and China. Through this extensive network, they were able to acquire goods, materials, and ideas from different parts of the world.

The Swahili city-states offered a wide variety of goods, including gold, ivory, spices, timber, and slaves, which were highly sought after in international markets. This diverse range of valuable commodities made the city-states important trading hubs and helped sustain their economic and political power over time.

Additionally, the favorable weather conditions along the coastal area played a role in the longevity of the Swahili city-states' influence. The region's tropical climate, with its consistent rainfall and moderate temperatures, supported agricultural activities such as farming and fishing. This enabled the city-states to produce surplus food and engage in commercial agriculture, further enhancing their economic stability.

While the number of cities along the coast was not necessarily overwhelming in comparison to their competitors, it did contribute to the longevity of the Swahili city-states' influence. The concentration of multiple city-states in close proximity created a cohesive network that facilitated trade, cultural exchange, and political alliances. This synergy among the city-states allowed them to collectively maintain their dominant position in the Indian Ocean trade routes for an extended period.

In summary, the trade network connecting the Swahili city-states to other powers, the variety of goods they offered, the favorable coastal weather for farming, and the presence of multiple cities along the coast all played significant roles in the longevity of their influence.