Final answer:
The society into which Muhammad was born was made up primarily of nomadic tribes and merchants, characterized by trade along the Spice Road and the significant role of the Quraysh tribe in Mecca.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct option is B:
The nature of the society into which the prophet Muhammad was born was B. a society made up largely of nomads and merchants.
Muhammad was a member of the Quraysh tribe in the Hijaz region, particularly Mecca, an area which was a hub for the north-south trade routes. The Quraysh tribe played a dominant role in the region due to their control over the Kaaba, which was a sanctuary and center for trade at the time. Thus, Mecca was a place where various tribes could safely conduct business, creating an environment where mercantile activities were central to the society.
The pre-Islamic Arabian Peninsula was predominantly organized along tribal lines, where tribes governed themselves with the patriarchs of each clan. They were primarily known for their camel caravans as part of the Spice Road, connecting Europe to Asia, and for being fierce light cavalry warriors. This demonstrates a society structured around nomadic and merchant activities rather than an agricultural or exclusively pastoral focus.
Following the principles of providing plagiarism free content, this explanation is crafted to encapsulate the societal context during the time of Muhammad that was characterized by trade, securing their livelihood through merchant activities and by engaging in camel caravans that facilitated long-distance commerce. This trade-oriented society is where Islam emerged and expanded, influenced by the traits and traditions inherent to the Arabian tribes of that era.