Question

Why do you think scholars were reluctant for many years to accept that sub-Saharan societies independently developed ironworking technology? What does this suggest about how people have traditionally evaluated African historical developments?

a) Assumptions about technological inferiority in Africa delayed acknowledgment.
b) Lack of archaeological evidence made scholars skeptical.
c) External influences were deemed crucial for technological advancements.
d) Cultural biases downplayed African societies' technological achievements.

Answer 1

Scholars were reluctant to accept independent development of ironworking technology in sub-Saharan Africa due to assumptions about technological inferiority, lack of archaeological evidence, and cultural biases.

Step-by-step explanation:

Scholars were initially reluctant to accept that sub-Saharan societies independently developed ironworking technology for several reasons.

One reason is that there was a prevailing assumption about technological inferiority in Africa, which led to delays in acknowledging African societies' achievements. This assumption was rooted in cultural biases that downplayed the technological advancements of African societies.

Additionally, there was a lack of archaeological evidence initially, which made scholars skeptical. The belief that external influences were crucial for technological advancements also played a role in the reluctance to accept independent development.