Trade across the Indian Ocean was the main cause of the development of the Swahili culture. The Swahili people were involved in a thriving trade network that connected the East African coast with the Middle East, India, and even China. This trade brought a mix of cultures, languages, and religions to the region, leading to the development of a unique Swahili culture that incorporated elements from various societies. Trade was the driving force behind the growth and prosperity of the Swahili city-states along the East African coast.
