Section outline

  • THEMATIC FOCUS

    Governance GOV

    A variety of internal and external factors contribute to state formation, expansion, and decline. Governments maintain order through a variety of administrative institutions, policies, and procedures, and governments obtain, retain, and exercise power in different ways and for different purposes.

    LEARNING OBJECTIVE HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENTS

    Unit 1: Learning Objective J

    Explain how and why states in Africa developed and changed over time.

    KC-3.2.I.D.ii

    In Africa, as in Eurasia and the Americas, state systems demonstrated continuity, innovation, and diversity and expanded in scope and reach.

    ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES

    State systems in Africa:

    • Great Zimbabwe
    • Ethiopia
    • Hausa kingdoms
    • Topic 1.5 PPT File PPTX

      Use this PPT to help you study.

    • State Building in Africa Lesson Content File PDF

      Download and use this document in this lesson.

    • Reflective Questions Assignment
      Opened: Sunday, 2 November 2025, 9:10 PM
      Due: Wednesday, 5 November 2025, 11:59 PM
      Answer these questions directly into the submission area.
      1. Which African state best demonstrates innovation in governance? Explain your reasoning.
      2. How did trade networks (Indian Ocean, Red Sea, Trans-Saharan) shape African political and cultural systems?
      3. Compare the use of religion as a source of legitimacy in African and Eurasian states during this period.
      4. In what ways do these examples challenge stereotypes about Africa’s “isolation” before European contact?
    • Topic 1.5 MC Practice Questions Quiz
      Opened: Sunday, 2 November 2025, 9:00 AM

      There are 25 practice questions in this set. Try to complete them within 20 minutes.