While investigating the increased warfare in West Africa between the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries, what do many historians argue is the key factor in increasing warfare at large?
the European firearms sale-enslavement cycle.
wars of succession.
dangerous environments along the Bight of Benin.
varying local currencies, such as nzimbu she.
Many historians argue that the key factor in increasing warfare in West Africa between the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries is the European firearms sale-enslavement cycle. The arrival of European traders and merchants in West Africa introduced a significant change in the dynamics of warfare. The Europeans traded advanced firearms, such as muskets and cannons, to local African rulers in exchange for enslaved individuals. This led to an increase in the demand for slaves, which, in turn, sparked conflicts and warfare among African kingdoms and communities as they competed for captives to trade with European merchants. The availability of firearms provided a significant advantage to those who possessed them, leading to an arms race and increased warfare in the region.
