what is the evidence of settled communities in SA before european colonialism
There is evidence of settled communities in South Africa before European colonialism in the form of archaeological remains, rock art, and oral traditions of various indigenous peoples. Some of the notable examples include:
1. The Mapungubwe Kingdom: This pre-colonial state existed in southern Africa between the 9th and 13th centuries and was known for its sophisticated social organization, trade, and ironworking skills.
2. The Great Zimbabwe Kingdom: This kingdom existed from the 11th to 15th century and was known for its impressive stone architecture, gold mining, and international trade.
3. The San and Khoi communities: These were hunter-gatherer communities that lived in southern Africa for thousands of years and left behind rock art that provides a glimpse of their way of life.
4. The Bantu migrations: From around 1,000 years ago, Bantu-speaking people migrated into southern Africa, bringing with them agricultural practices, ironworking, and a new set of cultural practices.
Overall, there is ample evidence that South Africa had thriving and complex societies before European colonialism, with many of these communities leaving behind rich cultural and archaeological legacies.