Problem
A. Discuss the methodological challenges of studying Ancient and Medieval African history. How are commonly used terms potentially problematic in studying Africa?
B. What characteristics were shared by the Western Sudanic states? How did their location impact their economic development, religion, and scholastic contributions?
C. How did the ruling classes of Great Zimbabwe generate wealth and demonstrate their status?
D. Describe the urban style of Swahili city-states in East Africa. In what ways are oral traditions, such as the one about Kilwa Kisiwani, important to Swahili identity?
E. Compare and contrast the Aztec and Inca civilizations. In what ways were they similar? How were they different?
F. What traits did the Mound Builder cultures of North America share? How did they differ from the cultures that developed in the American Southwest? How were cultures of the North American West able to overcome limited rainfall?
G. How does the article on rice farming overcome some of the methodological problems of studying African history? Cite examples from the reading to support your answer.