Which option best describes the role of the Sahara in the history of empires in western Africa from the seventh century CE to the sixteenth century CE? Choose the best answer choice, and explain.

Question

Responses

The Sahara was a natural barrier that provided consistent protection from outside invasion for the empires of western Africa.
The Sahara was a natural barrier that provided consistent protection from outside invasion for the empires of western Africa.

The Sahara prevented the influence of Islam in western Africa, even though the religion became influential in northern Africa.
The Sahara prevented the influence of Islam in western Africa, even though the religion became influential in northern Africa.

The Sahara did not have a tremendous influence on the empires of western Africa, since it was barren and uninhabited.
The Sahara did not have a tremendous influence on the empires of western Africa, since it was barren and uninhabited.

The Sahara was an important source of natural resources, and facilitated cultural influence through trade systems.

Answer 1

The best answer choice is: The Sahara was an important source of natural resources, and facilitated cultural influence through trade systems.

Explanation: The Sahara played a crucial role in the history of empires in western Africa during this time period as it served as a key trade route connecting the empires in western Africa to North Africa and the Mediterranean world. This facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures and allowed for the development and growth of wealthy empires such as the Ghana, Mali, and Songhai empires. The trans-Saharan trade routes also brought Islam to western Africa and influenced the region's political and social structures. So, while the Sahara presented challenges in terms of its harsh environment, it was also a vital source of resources and a conduit for cultural exchange.