Which of the following best compares social developments in both west and East Africa?

Centralized power gave local governments less authority
Their king's hajj helped the poor in both regions
Islam became an important part of both societies
Trade with Arabs in both societies spread Islam
(pick one)

Islam became an important part of both societies

To determine the best answer, let's break down and compare each option:

1. "Centralized power gave local governments less authority": This option suggests a similarity in social development, as both West and East Africa experienced centralized power structures that diminished the authority of local governments. However, this option does not solely focus on the comparison between the two regions.

2. "Their king's hajj helped the poor in both regions": This option highlights a potential similarity in social development, as it suggests that kings in both West and East Africa undertook hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca) to aid the poor. However, it might be difficult to find concrete evidence and historical examples to support this assertion.

3. "Islam became an important part of both societies": This option appears to provide a strong comparison between West and East Africa in terms of social developments. It suggests that Islam played a significant role in both regions, indicating a similar impact on their societies.

4. "Trade with Arabs in both societies spread Islam": This option focuses on the influence of Arab trade on the spread of Islam in West and East Africa. While it suggests a similarity, it is more specific and doesn't cover a broader range of social developments.

Based on the comparisons made above, option number 3, "Islam became an important part of both societies," seems to be the best choice. It emphasizes a shared social development between West and East Africa, highlighting the significance of Islam in both regions.

The correct option that best compares social developments in both West and East Africa is: Islam became an important part of both societies.