Overview:
This module focuses on the diverse economic activities that sustained pre-colonial Kemet/Afrikan societies, including Kemet and other empires. Learners will explore the agricultural systems, trade networks, artisanal craftsmanship, and other economic practices that contributed to the wealth and stability of African civilizations. This module highlights the importance of trade routes such as the Trans-Saharan and Indian Ocean trade, as well as the role of agriculture and natural resources in shaping African economies.
Lesson Outcomes:
- Understand the economic activities that sustained pre-colonial Kemet/Afrikan societies.
- Analyze the role of agriculture in shaping Kemet/Afrikan economies and social structures.
- Explore the significance of trade networks such as the Trans-Saharan and Indian Ocean trade routes.
- Investigate the production and trade of goods such as gold, salt, textiles, and iron.
- Reflect on the artisanal and craftsmanship traditions of Kemet/Afrikan societies.
- Examine how natural resources influenced political and economic power in Kemet/Afrikan empires.
- Explore the role of labor and social organization in pre-colonial Kemet/Afrikan economies.
- Investigate how Kemet/Afrikan empires maintained economic stability through trade, production, and resource management.
- Compare the economic systems of various Kemet/Afrikan civilizations, including Kemet, Mali, and Great Zimbabwe.
- Reflect on the relevance of pre-colonial Kemet/Afrikan economic systems in today’s Kemet/Afrikan development.
Curriculum
- 3 Sections
- 12 Lessons
- 3 Weeks
Expand all sectionsCollapse all sections
- Week 7Week 7: Agricultural Systems in Pre-Colonial Africa4
- 0.0The importance of agriculture in sustaining African civilizations.
- 0.1Understanding African crop cultivation and irrigation techniques.
- 0.2The connection between agricultural practices and social organization.
- 0.4Assignment: Write a reflection on how agriculture shaped the economy and society in a specific African civilization (e.g., Kemet, Mali, or Great Zimbabwe).
- Week 8Week 8: Trade Routes and Economic Networks5
- 0.0The significance of the Trans-Saharan and Indian Ocean trade routes.
- 0.1Key goods traded between African empires and neighboring regions.
- 0.2How trade routes facilitated cultural exchange and political alliances.
- 0.3Quiz: The role of trade in pre-colonial African economies.10 Minutes0 Questions
- 0.4Assignment: Create a map showing the major trade routes and the key goods traded along these routes.
- Week 9Week 9: Artisanal Craftsmanship and Resource Management4
- 0.0The role of artisans and craftsmanship in African economies.
- 0.1Production of goods such as textiles, pottery, iron, and gold.
- 0.2How African empires managed natural resources to maintain political and economic power.
- 0.4Assignment: Research and present on the production of a specific artisanal good (e.g., textiles, iron, or gold) in a pre-colonial African civilization.
Pre-colonial African economies were sustained through agriculture, trade (including Trans-Saharan and Indian Ocean routes), and artisanal production of goods such as textiles, iron, salt, and gold.
No prior knowledge is required. This module provides a thorough introduction to African economic systems before colonization.
Trade routes such as the Trans-Saharan and Indian Ocean routes facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures across Africa and beyond, helping African empires to grow and prosper.
Most activities use standard web browsers. We'll guide you through installing any necessary (free) browser extensions or applications as needed during the course.
Requirements
- Completion of Module 1: Historical and Cultural Context of the Twa People & Module 2: Pre-colonial Kemet/African History
- Basic computer literacy (ability to use a keyboard, mouse, and basic software)
- Basic interest in African economic history and trade systems.
- Ability to engage in reflective assignments on pre-colonial African economies.
- Willingness to participate in online discussions and group activities
Features
- Interactive Lessons: Weekly live sessions exploring trade networks, agriculture, and resource management in pre-colonial Africa.
- Community Discussions: Engage with peers in discussions about how African economic systems shaped social and political life.
- Quizzes and Assignments: Assessments to deepen learners’ understanding of pre-colonial African economies.
Target audiences
- Economic History Enthusiasts: Learners interested in understanding how African societies sustained their economies before colonization.
- Historians and Researchers: Scholars focused on trade, resource management, and economic structures in pre-colonial African empires.
- Cultural and Agricultural Enthusiasts: Individuals looking to explore the role of agriculture and craftsmanship in African societies.
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