Question

The purpose of this passage is:

a) To inform about camels.
b) To relate a humorous story.
c) To describe a famous place.
d) To tell about a famous person.

Answer 1

The passage seeks to inform about the historical impact of camels on trans-Saharan trade, detailing their physical adaptations and their role in facilitating long-distance trade and economic development in North Africa.

Step-by-step explanation:

Purpose of the Passage

The passage provided is focused on detailing the historical significance and the benefits of dromedary camels in North Africa and their impact on trans-Saharan trade. The piece is educational and seeks to inform the reader about how the introduction of the camel contributed to long-distance trade across the Sahara, emphasizing the animal's unique physical adaptations and the invention of the camel saddle by the Tuareg people. The passage describes how camels facilitated the opening of new routes and supported the transport of goods like West African gold, ivory, and ostrich feathers, significantly impacting the Mediterranean world economy.

Camels were crucial to the economic development of the region due to their ability to travel long distances without water, their adaptation to sandy environments, and their capacity to carry substantial loads. The narrative also touches on the evolution of settlements such as Sijilmasa and Kano that arose to support this burgeoning trade network. Hence, the purpose of the passage is to inform readers about the historical impact of camels on trade and society in North Africa.