What led to the development of the Swahili language in Africa?
A.
the blending of indigenous and Arab cultures through trade in West Africa
B.
the blending of indigenous and Arab cultures through trade over the Indian Ocean
C.
the blending of indigenous and European cultures through trade in West Africa
D.
the blending of indigenous and European cultures through trade over the Indian Ocean
B. the blending of indigenous and Arab cultures through trade over the Indian Ocean
The development of the Swahili language in Africa was primarily influenced by the blending of indigenous Bantu languages with Arabic as a result of extensive trade relationships along the coast of East Africa and across the Indian Ocean. Arab traders conducted trade along the Swahili Coast, bringing their language and culture with them, which eventually led to the development of Swahili as a distinct language.