Which of the following explains a political development in East Africa prior to 1500 CE? Choose the best answer choice, and explain.

Question

Responses

coastal trade between Great Zimbabwe and the Swahili Coast

a climate shift that brought the end of the city-state Mapungubwe

the construction of the 11 churches of the Roha

the building of a Great Mosque in Kilwa

Answer 1

The best answer choice that explains a political development in East Africa prior to 1500 CE is "the building of a Great Mosque in Kilwa." This development signifies the spread of Islam in East Africa, which had significant political implications as it led to the establishment of Islamic city-states along the Swahili Coast. The Great Mosque in Kilwa served not only as a religious center but also as a symbol of political power and authority for the rulers of Kilwa. This development facilitated trade and cultural exchange between the Islamic city-states and regions further inland.