Describe a major factor in the longevity of the Swahili city-states’ influence.

Question

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

Answer 1

A major factor in the longevity of the Swahili city-states' influence was the trade network that connected them to other powers in the Indian Ocean. This extensive trading network allowed the city-states to engage in commerce with various regions, including the Arabian Peninsula, Persia, India, and China. The Swahili city-states acted as important intermediaries in the exchange of goods, such as ivory, gold, spices, timber, and slaves, and benefitted immensely from this trade.

The prosperity that came with being part of a flourishing trade network contributed to the growth and stability of the Swahili city-states. They were able to accumulate wealth, develop sophisticated infrastructure, such as stone buildings and impressive mosques, and establish political and social institutions. This economic power and influence allowed the Swahili city-states to maintain control and resist domination from various competing powers in the region.

While the number of cities along the coast may have contributed to the overall strength of the Swahili city-states, it was not the primary factor in their longevity. Similarly, while the coastal weather likely provided favorable conditions for agriculture, it did not have a significant impact on their lasting influence. Instead, it was the ability of the Swahili city-states to trade a wide variety of valuable goods, and benefit from their strategic location along important trade routes, that played a key role in their long-lasting influence.