What led to the development of the Swahili language in Africa?
A. the blending of indigenous and Arab cultures through trade in West Africa
B. the blending of indigenous and Arab cultures through trade over the Indian Ocean
C. the blending of indigenous and European cultures through trade in West Africa
D. the blending of indigenous and European cultures through trade over the Indian Ocean
B. the blending of indigenous and Arab cultures through trade over the Indian Ocean
The development of the Swahili language in Africa was largely influenced by the trade networks that connected the East African coast with Arab traders crossing the Indian Ocean. Arab traders played a significant role in the development of the Swahili language as they interacted with indigenous communities along the coast, leading to a blending of their languages and cultures. This resulted in the formation of Swahili as a unique language with a significant Arabic influence.