Final answer:
Biological sciences contribute to the writing of African history through the analysis of ancient DNA, understanding the impact of diseases, and interpreting oral traditions in the absence of extensive written records.
Step-by-step explanation:
Biological sciences have made substantial contributions to the writing of African history by aiding in the understanding and interpretation of archaeological findings and genetic evidence. In regions where historical written documentation is scarce or biased, biological techniques such as the analysis of ancient DNA help provide insights into the past populations, their movements, and their interactions. For instance, ancient DNA research has increasingly informed our understanding of the complex and diverse historical narratives of Africa, as discussed by Campana, M. G., et al., in their 2013 research on the prospects of ancient DNA studies in Africa. The excavation and analysis of historical plague strains, as mentioned by Ann G. Carmichael, contributes to a deeper understanding of the impact that diseases have had on African populations over time. Additionally, biological classifications and misconceptions were historically used to justify the treatment of African Americans and their categorization as biologically inferior, as highlighted by leading physicians and scientists, a stance notably taken by Thomas Jefferson in the 1800s. Furthermore, biological evidence is critical to recognizing Africa's philosophical contributions where written records are limited, and oral traditions serve as a key source of knowledge.