How were Kush and Axum alike? (1 point) Responses both were commercial and trade centers both were commercial and trade centers both were ruled by the caste system both were ruled by the caste system both utilized the trans-Saharan trade route both utilized the trans-Saharan trade route both were significantly influenced by Islam
both were significantly influenced by Islam
Both Kush and Axum were significantly influenced by Islam.
To determine how Kush and Axum were alike, we can examine their characteristics and historical context.
First, we need to understand some background information about Kush and Axum. Kush was an ancient civilization located in the region of modern-day Sudan. It was centered around the Nile River and flourished between 1070 BCE and 350 CE. Axum, on the other hand, was an ancient kingdom located in present-day Ethiopia and Eritrea. It thrived from approximately the 1st to the 7th century CE.
Now, let's analyze the similarities between Kush and Axum:
1. Both were commercial and trade centers: Both Kush and Axum served as important trading hubs. Kush, being located on the Nile River, facilitated trade between the African interior and the Mediterranean region. It was known for its production and export of goods like gold, ivory, ebony, and slaves. Similarly, Axum had access to Red Sea trade routes, enabling it to engage in commerce with the Mediterranean world, the Arabian Peninsula, and India. It traded a variety of goods, including spices, textiles, and African products.
2. Both utilized the trans-Saharan trade route: While Kush and Axum were not directly connected to the trans-Saharan trade route, they played significant roles in this trade network. The trans-Saharan trade route spanned across the Sahara Desert, connecting Sub-Saharan Africa with North Africa and the Mediterranean. Kush and Axum served as middlemen in this trade, facilitating the exchange of goods between the African interior and the Mediterranean world.
3. Both were significantly influenced by Islam: While Kush and Axum existed before the rise of Islam, Axum later adopted Christianity as its state religion. However, both civilizations had interactions with Islamic traders and communities. Kush, being involved in long-distance trade, encountered Arab merchants who likely spread Islamic ideas and influenced their culture. Similarly, Axum had contact with Muslim traders from the Arabian Peninsula, which contributed to the spread of Islamic influence in the region.
In summary, Kush and Axum were alike in multiple ways. They both operated as commercial and trade centers, utilized the trans-Saharan trade route indirectly, and were influenced by Islamic traders and communities. These similarities contributed to their significance in the ancient world and their economic and cultural prosperity.