Big Brains
What was the most popular language?
Bantu and Shona
What continent is Great Zimbabwe in?
Africa
What was the main material that they worked with?
Iron
What technology did Great Zimbabwe use for agriculture?
Advanced ironworking
Where did the majority of their money come from?
Trade
How were the Bantu and Shona languages passed down from generation to generation?
Orally, not written
What geographical feature is Great Zimbabwe built on?
Natural resources including granite hills
What was the most significant artistic creation that demonstrated their culture?
Zimbabwe Bird
What building techniques did the people of Great Zimbabwe use?
Dry-stone masonry for building structures like the Great Enclosure and employed iron tools for farming
What agricultural practice supported the economy of Great Zimbabwe?
Farming, particularly the cultivation of millet and sorghum
How did the architecture of Great Zimbabwe reflect the social and political structure of its society?
It reflects a hierarchical society, with grand structures symbolizing elite power and centralized authority.
What geographical features helped Great Zimbabwe become an important trading center?
How did the art of Great Zimbabwe show the culture and beliefs of its people?
Showing advanced skills and spiritual meanings
What agricultural technologies did Great Zimbabwe employ to support its economy?
Terracing and crop rotation to maximize land use
What were the key factors that contributed to the economic prosperity of Great Zimbabwe?
Location, resources, agriculture, cattle, and trade network
What role did the intellectual exchanges at Great Zimbabwe play in its cultural development and influence on neighboring regions?
Advanced metallurgy and trade, enhancing its cultural influence and shaping southern Africa's socio-economic landscape.
How did the geography of Great Zimbabwe contribute to its role as a trade center in ancient Africa?
Allowed access to trade gold, ivory, and other valuables
How did art and craftsmanship at Great Zimbabwe reflect the society's values and beliefs?
Reflected cultural values and beliefs, depicting important symbols and showcasing the society's wealth and craftsmanship
How did the construction techniques and use of iron tools at Great Zimbabwe affect its political and economic stability?
Created strong structures that enhanced political stability, while iron tools improved farming, boosting food production and trade to strengthen the economy
What role did Great Zimbabwe’s architectural advancements play in its economic development?
It attracted traders and showcased wealth, enhancing trade relationships and solidifying its status as a regional hub.
How did the educational practices and knowledge systems at Great Zimbabwe contribute to its status as a center of learning in medieval Africa?
Diverse population exchanging ideas and skills, enriching local culture.
How did the geographical features of Great Zimbabwe influence its development as a political and economic center in medieval Africa?
Offered defense, fertile land supported agriculture, and its trade routes enhanced its role as a key political and economic center.
How did the artistic expressions of Great Zimbabwe reflect its social hierarchy and political power?
Symbolized royal authority and reflected social hierarchy, reinforcing elite status and political power.
In what ways did the architectural techniques of Great Zimbabwe demonstrate an understanding of environmental factors and materials available in the region?
Durable granite was used to incorporate drainage and ventilation
How did the decline of trade networks impact the economy of Great Zimbabwe in the late 15th century?
The change and decline of trade routes led to a decrease in the economy. Access to ivory and gold ultimately, and the shift in the economy ultimately led to the downfall of the empire.