Describe a major factor in the longevity of the Swahili city-states’ influence.(1 point) Responses the number of cities along the coast overwhelming any competitors the number of cities along the coast overwhelming any competitors the wide variety of goods that they offered the wide variety of goods that they offered the trade network that connected the city-states to other powers in the Indian Ocean the trade network that connected the city-states to other powers in the Indian Ocean the weather along the coastal area allowing for an increase in farming
One major factor in the longevity of the Swahili city-states’ influence was the trade network that connected the city-states to other powers in the Indian Ocean. This trade network allowed for the exchange of goods, ideas, and culture, which promoted economic prosperity and political stability. By having access to a wide range of resources from various regions, the city-states were able to establish themselves as important trading hubs and attract merchants from other regions. This trade network also provided the city-states with a level of protection, as they had allies and trading partners who would come to their aid in times of conflict. Consequently, the trade network played a crucial role in the longevity of the Swahili city-states’ influence.
A major factor in the longevity of the Swahili city-states' influence was the trade network that connected the city-states to other powers in the Indian Ocean. This trade network allowed for the exchange of goods and ideas, which contributed to the prosperity and cultural diversity of the Swahili city-states. The trade routes facilitated the movement of goods such as ivory, gold, spices, and slaves, attracting merchants from various parts of the world. This trade network also played a significant role in the dissemination of Islam along the East African coast, further strengthening the influence of the Swahili city-states.
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. To understand this, we can look at the historical context of the Swahili city-states.
The Swahili city-states were a collection of trading ports along the East African coast, stretching from present-day Somalia to Mozambique. These city-states flourished between the 9th and 16th centuries due to their strategic location along the maritime trade routes of the Indian Ocean.
To benefit from this trade network, the Swahili city-states established economic ties with various powers in the Indian Ocean, including Arab and Persian traders, as well as merchants from China and India. They became intermediaries in the long-distance trade between these regions, exchanging goods such as gold, ivory, spices, slaves, and valuable wood.
By actively participating in this trade network, the Swahili city-states were able to accumulate wealth and acquire a wide variety of goods. This not only enhanced their economic prosperity but also contributed to their cultural and political influence. The availability of diverse goods from different parts of the world made the Swahili city-states attractive trading partners, further strengthening their position in the region.
The sustained connectivity with other powers through the trade network allowed the Swahili city-states to maintain their influence for an extended period. It provided them with opportunities for economic growth, cultural exchange, and technological advancements. Moreover, this network acted as a defensive mechanism, as the city-states could seek assistance from their trading partners during conflicts and maintain their autonomy against potential rivals.
Therefore, the trade network that connected the Swahili city-states to other powers in the Indian Ocean played a crucial role in their longevity and influence. By leveraging their strategic location and actively engaging in long-distance trade, the Swahili city-states were able to thrive and maintain their prominence in the region for centuries.