Describe a major factor in the longevity of the Swahili city-states' influence. (1 point)
1. the trade network that connected the city-states to other powers in the Indian Ocean
2. the weather along the coastal area allowing for an increase in farming
3. the number of cities along the coast overwhelming any competitors
4. the wide variety of goods that they offered
1. the trade network that connected the city-states to other powers in the Indian Ocean
The major factor in the longevity of the Swahili city-states' influence is the trade network that connected the city-states to other powers in the Indian Ocean.
The correct answer is 1. the trade network that connected the city-states to other powers in the Indian Ocean.
To arrive at this answer, we need to understand the factors that contributed to the longevity of the Swahili city-states' influence.
1. The trade network: The Swahili city-states, such as Kilwa, Mogadishu, and Mombasa, were strategically located along the East African coast, which gave them easy access to the Indian Ocean trade routes. They developed extensive trade networks, connecting with other powers in the region like Persia, Arabia, India, and China. This trade network allowed the city-states to prosper economically, accumulate wealth, and exert influence over long periods of time.
2. The weather: While the weather along the coastal area of the Swahili city-states was favorable for agriculture, it was not a major factor in the longevity of their influence. The fertile coastal soils and suitable climate did support some farming activities, but it was the trade network rather than agriculture that played a more significant role in the city-states' influence.
3. The number of cities: While it is true that there were several cities along the Swahili coast, overwhelming any competitors alone did not guarantee the longevity of their influence. The presence of multiple city-states did create competition, but it was their trade connections and economic prosperity that allowed them to maintain their influence over time.
4. The variety of goods: Although the Swahili city-states did offer a wide variety of goods due to their participation in the Indian Ocean trade, this alone was not the major factor in their longevity. Their ability to access and trade diverse goods like gold, spices, ivory, copper, and slaves certainly contributed to their economic success and influence, but it was the trade network itself that played a more crucial role in sustaining their power.
In conclusion, the major factor in the longevity of the Swahili city-states' influence was the trade network that connected them to other powers in the Indian Ocean. This network facilitated economic prosperity, allowed for the exchange of diverse goods, and ensured their sustained influence over an extended period of time.