explain how the auxiliary sciences have impacted the historical content of Grade 6 topics of the CAPS curriculum listed below
1. an African kingdom long ago in Southern Africa: Mapungubwe
with references
The auxiliary sciences, which include archeology, anthropology, and paleontology, have had a significant impact on the historical content related to Mapungubwe, an African kingdom long ago in Southern Africa, as outlined in the Grade 6 topics of the CAPS curriculum. These disciplines have helped to uncover artifacts, provide context for ancient societies, and contribute to a better understanding of the historical developments in the region.
Archeology, for example, has played a crucial role in revealing the material culture of Mapungubwe by excavating and analyzing artifacts such as pottery, tools, and architectural remains. These findings have provided insights into the economic activities, social structures, and technological advancements of the Kingdom.
Anthropology has also contributed to the historical content by studying the customs, rituals, and beliefs of the people of Mapungubwe. Through ethnographic research, anthropologists have been able to reconstruct aspects of daily life, governance systems, and cultural practices of the kingdom.
In addition, paleontology has helped to establish the environmental context in which Mapungubwe flourished. By examining fossil evidence and geological data, paleontologists have been able to reconstruct the landscape, climate, and ecosystems of Southern Africa during the time of the kingdom, providing important insights into how these factors may have influenced the development and decline of Mapungubwe.
Overall, the auxiliary sciences have enriched the historical content related to Mapungubwe in the Grade 6 curriculum by providing a more nuanced understanding of the kingdom's society, economy, and environment. By incorporating insights from archeology, anthropology, and paleontology, students can gain a broader perspective on the history of African civilizations and appreciate the interconnectedness of different disciplines in reconstructing the past.
Reference:
- Huffman, T. (2007). Handbook to the Iron Age: The Archaeology of Pre-Colonial Farming Societies in Southern Africa. Cambridge University Press.