Which of the following best describes social characteristics associated with the Songhai? (1 point)
1. a strong Islamic influence, a focus on learning, and Arabic as the main language
2. women and men interacting in public places and women being encouraged to learn in libraries
3. a strong and decentralized government with important positions such as general and admiral
4. control of the salt and gold trade and a reliance on natural resources for most of their wealth
1. a strong Islamic influence, a focus on learning, and Arabic as the main language
The correct answer is option 1: a strong Islamic influence, a focus on learning, and Arabic as the main language.
To determine the correct answer, let's break down each option and examine the social characteristics associated with the Songhai Empire:
1. Option 1 suggests that the Songhai had a strong Islamic influence, a focus on learning, and Arabic as the main language. This is accurate, as the Songhai Empire embraced Islam after the rulers converted, leading to the spread of Islamic customs, practices, and scholarship among the population.
2. Option 2 suggests that women and men interacted in public places and that women were encouraged to learn in libraries. Although it is possible that women had some degree of freedom and access to education, historical evidence suggests that women generally had restricted roles and limited opportunities for education in the Songhai Empire. They were primarily expected to focus on domestic and family responsibilities.
3. Option 3 mentions a strong and decentralized government with important positions such as general and admiral. While it is true that the Songhai Empire had a strong central government, it was not decentralized. The empire was highly centralized under the leadership of the emperor or the Askia, who held absolute power over political, military, and economic affairs.
4. Option 4 states that the Songhai Empire controlled the salt and gold trade and relied on natural resources for most of their wealth. This is accurate. The Songhai Empire controlled the lucrative trans-Saharan trade routes, particularly the trade of gold and salt. This significantly contributed to their wealth and economic power.
Considering all the options, the answer that best describes the social characteristics associated with the Songhai Empire is option 1: a strong Islamic influence, a focus on learning, and Arabic as the main language.