Question

In what ways did the cultural blending on the Swahili coast make it an ideal region of exchange between the east and the peoples of Africa?

a) Swahili coast had no cultural blending.
b) Cultural blending facilitated trade, language development, and diverse societal structures.
c) Cultural blending led to conflicts and isolation.
d) The Swahili coast was not involved in exchanges between east and west.

Answer 1

The cultural blending on the Swahili coast facilitated trade, aided in language development, and led to diverse societal structures, making it an ideal region for exchange.

Step-by-step explanation:

Cultural Blending on the Swahili Coast

The cultural blending on the Swahili coast was instrumental in making it an ideal region for exchange. Due to the intermingling of Arab and Bantu cultures, a unique and shared language known as Swahili emerged, allowing for efficient communication in trade. This blending, along with a common religion of Islam, united the people and facilitated a vibrant exchange of goods, including luxury items, between the East and the peoples of Africa. Products from the African interior, such as gold and ivory, were traded for goods from Arabia, Persia, India, Southeast Asia, and China. The correct answer to the student's question is b) Cultural blending facilitated trade, language development, and diverse societal structures.