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 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 wide variety of goods that they offered
the wide variety of goods that they offered
the weather along the coastal area allowing for an increase in farming
the weather along the coastal area allowing for an increase in farming.
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.
A major factor in the longevity of the Swahili city-states' influence is the trade network that connected them to other powers in the Indian Ocean. To understand why this is a significant factor, we need to consider the historical context.
The Swahili city-states were located along the East African coast, which was strategically positioned for trade between the interior of Africa and the wider Indian Ocean region. They served as important centers for maritime commerce, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures.
To determine the importance of the trade network, we can examine the historical evidence such as trade records, archaeological findings, and accounts from travelers and merchants of that time. This research allows us to gain insight into the nature and extent of trade routes, the goods that were transported, and the economic relationships established between the Swahili city-states and other trading powers.
By participating in an extensive trade network, the Swahili city-states were able to access a wide variety of goods that they could offer to their own communities and to external traders. This included commodities such as gold, ivory, spices, and textiles, which were highly valued in the medieval Indian Ocean trade.
The ability to offer diverse and sought-after goods gave the Swahili city-states a competitive advantage over their rivals. It helped them attract more merchants, establish economic prosperity, and gain influence in the region. This, in turn, contributed to their longevity and ability to maintain their prominence as centers of commerce and cultural exchange.
Therefore, the trade network that connected the Swahili city-states to other powers in the Indian Ocean is a major factor in their longevity of influence.