Final answer:
The Bantu focused on hardwoods and riverbanks during their migration southward for resources essential to their Iron Age economy: wood for tool making and iron smelting, and fertile land for agriculture, which facilitated the growth of powerful kingdoms and spreading of their culture.
Step-by-step explanation:
Why the Bantu Focused on Hardwood and Riverbanks
The Bantu migrations southward during the Middle Ages were strategic in utilizing resources for their Iron Age economy. They focused on areas rich in hardwoods and riverbanks as they moved south through Africa. Hardwoods were essential for creating tools, weapons, and for the smelting of iron. Riverbanks provided fertile land for agriculture, supporting their farming practices. They could cultivate crops such as sorghum and millet and keep livestock, which included cattle, pigs, and chickens. The Bantu's selection of these areas allowed them to expand rapidly across suitable landscapes, avoiding drier regions and ensuring access to necessary resources for their advancing communities.
Settling near hardwoods was critical as wood was needed both for construction materials and as fuel for the iron smelting processes. Ironworking was a significant advantage for the Bantu; it brought about improvements in agricultural capabilities and military strength. Riverbanks, with their fertile soil, supported extensive farming, leading to the growth of powerful Bantu kingdoms.
Their migrations also had cultural implications as the Bantu spread their language and practices throughout southern Africa. By establishing themselves along riverbanks and areas with access to hardwoods, the Bantu not only thrived but also laid the groundwork for future African states such as medieval Great Zimbabwe.