Question

Why was the Sahara vital to the prosperity of medieval West African kingdoms despite its hostile environment?

a) Because it provided natural barriers against invasions.
b) Due to its rich reserves of precious minerals and gemstones.
c) Because of its role as a significant trade route and economic hub.
d) For its agricultural fertility supporting large populations.

Answer 1

The Sahara was vital to the prosperity of medieval West African kingdoms because it provided salt, a valuable commodity that was unobtainable in the region. Additionally, the Sahara's oases served as important hubs connecting trade routes and contributing to economic prosperity.

Step-by-step explanation:

During the medieval period, the Sahara provided powerful West African kingdoms with a vital commodity: salt. Salt was almost completely unobtainable in the inland regions south of the Sahara, so it was mined from sites such as Taghaza and transported in caravans across the desert to be traded. Salt became one of the most prized goods traded across the Sahara, alongside gold. The Sahara's oases also served as crucial hubs connecting trade routes, making it a significant trade route and economic hub for the medieval West African kingdoms.

Answer 2

The Sahara was vital to the prosperity of medieval West African kingdoms primarily because of its role as a significant trade route and economic hub. Therefore, the correct answer is c) Because of its role as a significant trade route and economic hub.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Sahara Desert, though seemingly inhospitable, played a pivotal role in the prosperity of medieval West African kingdoms due to its function as a major trade route and economic hub. The Trans-Saharan trade routes facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and culture between North Africa and West Africa. Caravans traversing the desert carried valuable commodities such as gold, salt, ivory, and slaves. The control and management of these trade routes allowed West African kingdoms to accumulate wealth and establish economic stability.

Moreover, the Sahara served as a connecting link between the Mediterranean world and sub-Saharan Africa. The bustling trade activities fostered economic development, cultural exchange, and technological advancements in the region. As a result, cities like Timbuktu became renowned centers of learning and commerce. The wealth generated from trans-Saharan trade significantly contributed to the prosperity of West African kingdoms, enabling the establishment of powerful empires like the Ghana Empire, Mali Empire, and Songhai Empire.

In essence, the Sahara's harsh environment was turned into an advantageous geographical feature, acting as a conduit for economic prosperity rather than a barrier. The strategic positioning of West African kingdoms along the trade routes allowed them to thrive despite the challenges posed by the desert. The economic importance of the Sahara in facilitating trade and cultural exchange underscores its vital role in the medieval West African societies' development and prosperity. Therefore, the correct answer is c) Because of its role as a significant trade route and economic hub.