Question

What made Muslim missionary activity possible in the interior of Africa during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries?

1) The spread of the Arabic language
2) Trade networks
3) Political alliances
4) Conversion through force

Answer 1

The spread of Islam in the interior of Africa during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries was made possible by the spread of the Arabic language, trade networks, and political alliances.

Step-by-step explanation:

The spread of Islam in the interior of Africa during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries was made possible by a combination of factors:

1. The spread of the Arabic language: The Arabic language became widely used due to its association with Islam, allowing for communication and the transmission of Islamic teachings.
2. Trade networks: Muslim merchants and traders used the trans-Saharan trade routes to spread Islam to trading towns in West Africa, where it was adopted by ruling elites and blended with traditional beliefs.
3. Political alliances: African rulers recognized the economic importance of the Muslim-led trans-Saharan trade and thus tolerated Islam in their territories. Some even allocated specific districts for Muslim merchants.