Identify which factor supported both Axum and the Swahili city-states in trading with other nations. (1 point)
1. location
2. language
3. lack of competition
4. trade
4. trade
1. Location: The geographical location of both Axum and the Swahili city-states played a significant role in supporting their trade with other nations. Axum, located on the Red Sea coast of modern-day Ethiopia, was strategically positioned along the Indian Ocean trade routes, allowing it to connect with various civilizations from Asia, Arabia, and the Mediterranean. Similarly, the Swahili city-states, located along the East African coast, benefited from their proximity to major trade routes, facilitating their engagement in long-distance trade with countries such as India, China, Persia, and the Arabian Peninsula.
4. Trade: Trade itself was a major factor that supported both Axum and the Swahili city-states in their interaction with other nations. These civilizations actively engaged in trade, exporting goods such as gold, ivory, spices, precious stones, slaves, and manufactured goods, which attracted merchants from various parts of the world. Their involvement in trade networks enabled them to establish economic relationships with other nations, promoting cultural exchange, and economic growth.
While language played a role in facilitating communication and negotiation in trade transactions, it was not a universal factor that supported both Axum and the Swahili city-states. Additionally, the lack of competition was not a primary factor as both civilizations faced competition from other trading centers in their region.
To identify which factor supported both Axum and the Swahili city-states in trading with other nations, we need to analyze the options given: location, language, lack of competition, and trade.
1. Location: Both Axum and the Swahili city-states were strategically located in regions that made them hubs of trade. Axum was situated in modern-day Ethiopia, close to the Red Sea coast, allowing it to access trade routes between Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and India. The Swahili city-states, on the other hand, were located along the East African coast, providing them easy access to maritime trade routes.
2. Language: While language did play a role in facilitating communication and interaction in trade, it was not a significant factor solely responsible for supporting both Axum and the Swahili city-states. Axum used the ancient Ge'ez language, and the Swahili city-states employed a mixture of Swahili and Arabic.
3. Lack of competition: It is unlikely that the lack of competition was a supporting factor for both Axum and the Swahili city-states. In fact, trade competition often encourages economic growth and stimulates innovation.
4. Trade: Trade played a crucial role in supporting both Axum and the Swahili city-states. These civilizations actively engaged in long-distance commerce, establishing trade networks that connected them to various regions and civilizations. Axum traded goods such as ivory, gold, and exotic animals, while the Swahili city-states were known for their involvement in the Indian Ocean trade, dealing with products like gold, spices, and precious metals.
Considering the above analysis, the factor that supported both Axum and the Swahili city-states in trading with other nations is trade (option 4).