Final answer:
The political structures of East Africa and West Africa during the medieval period were characterized by the rise and fall of empires and the establishment of city states. The Tang, Song, Mongols, and Ming dynasties in China witnessed significant technological advancements.
Step-by-step explanation:
Political structures in East Africa and West Africa during the medieval period were characterized by the rise and fall of empires and the establishment of city states. In East Africa, the Swahili culture emerged along the coast, fueled by trade with Arab and Indonesian merchants. The most prominent empires in West Africa were the Ghana, Mali, and Songhai Empires, which thrived due to trade and the control of valuable resources.
The Tang, Song, Mongols, and Ming dynasties in China witnessed significant technological advancements. During the Tang dynasty, there was a flourishing of international trade and cultural exchange along the Silk Roads, resulting in the introduction of new products and ideas to China. The Song dynasty saw innovations such as gunpowder and the compass, while the Mongols' vast empire promoted the exchange of knowledge and technologies between different regions. The Ming dynasty maintained open trade policies and made significant contributions to maritime exploration and shipbuilding.