Question

What were the political, economic, cultural, and social characteristics of Sub-Saharan Africa prior to the growth of the major kingdoms and empires?

a) Sub-Saharan Africa had a decentralized political structure, relied on trade networks, and had diverse cultures.
b) Sub-Saharan Africa was unified under a single empire, had a command economy, and shared a single culture.
c) Sub-Saharan Africa had strong central governments, a barter-based economy, and a homogeneous culture.
d) Sub-Saharan Africa was isolated from the rest of the world, had no social structure, and lacked culture.

Answer 1

Sub-Saharan Africa before the major empires was marked by a decentralized political structure, thriving trade networks, and cultural diversity. These characteristics depict an intricate and connected region rich in social and economic exchanges. The correct option is A.

Step-by-step explanation:

The political, economic, cultural, and social characteristics of Sub-Saharan Africa prior to the growth of the major kingdoms and empires were indeed varied and complex. Sub-Saharan Africa had a decentralized political structure, with some areas forming small village-based societies and others developing into larger, organized states and kingdoms.

Economically, the region was connected through vibrant trade networks, which included the trade of gold, salt, and slaves, linking Sub-Saharan Africa with other parts of the world. Culturally, there was an immense diversity with hundreds of languages, cultures, and political states.

Socially, the societies had established forms of leadership, decision-making, and dispute settlement to maintain social order. Consequently, the correct choice reflecting these characteristics is a) Sub-Saharan Africa had a decentralized political structure, relied on trade networks, and had diverse cultures.