Final answer:
The Head Yoruba period in Ife from the 12th to 18th century was marked by the evolution of centralized city-states with significant trade and artistic achievements.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Head Yoruba period in Ife, Nigeria, dates from the 12th to 18th century. This era saw the Yoruba people evolve from smaller clans into influential territorial city-states, such as Ife, Oyo, and Benin. The Yoruba established centralized political systems with an elected state hierarchy and developed as subsistence farmers, artisans, and traders dealing in cloth, kola nuts, palm oil, and copper. Trade and the acquisition of horses contributed to Oyo emerging as a dominant political entity among the Yoruba states in the late 14th and early 15th centuries.
The historical significance of this era is highlighted by the urbanized nature of the city-states, with some cities like Ife becoming highly fortified with extensive walls and moats for protection. Additionally, these city-states exhibited a high level of artistic achievement, particularly in materials such as ivory, wood, brass, and bronze. The Head Yoruba period fostered cultural homogeneity and political stability that would have profound impacts on regional politics and culture.