Final answer:
The distance from Russia to West Africa by cargo ship varies based on the specific departure and arrival ports. Shipping routes and commercial trade needs play key roles in determining a ship's journey, which can vary for container ships and bulkers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The distance from Russia to West Africa when traveling via cargo ship cannot be accurately determined without specific information on the departure and arrival ports. Cargo ships traverse different shipping routes based on commercial trade demands and other logistical factors. The distance could vary significantly depending on where in Russia the journey begins and where in West Africa the ship is destined. For example, a cargo ship departing from a Russian port like Saint Petersburg would have a different route and distance compared to one leaving from Vladivostok.
Large container ships operate on predefined routes and make frequent stops to load and unload goods. The size and type of the ship, as well as the nature of its cargo, can also influence the chosen route. Container ships are designed to make regular stops, whereas bulkers generally travel directly between two ports either full or in ballast, altering their destinations based on market conditions.
Historically, the trade routes and their importance have shifted over time. For example, during the rise of the Swahili city-states, trade was heavily centered around the Indian Ocean, connecting Africa with Asia and beyond. Similarly, European coastal trade in West Africa was significantly influenced by the demand for enslaved captives during the 18th century, which altered traditional trading routes and patterns.