Cultural Geography of Africa, Social Studies

How have former European colonial powers influenced North Africa? In a short paragraph, identify three ways that European culture has affected this region.

Although the official language of all North African countries is Arabic, European languages are second languages. In many cases, European languages are used for commerce. Although Islam is the most common religion, Christianity is also common in some North African nations. Many North African cities have European quarters or sections. Many also have numerous examples of European architecture that were built during colonial eras.

Fantasy coffins are popular among the __________, a West African cultural group.

Ga

How did Islam come to North Africa? In a short paragraph, give three examples of the ways this religion has impacted North African culture.

Islam arrived in North Africa with traders and conquering armies in the mid-600s. The Arabic language and the Islamic faith then spread throughout the region. Islamic scholarship aided cities as they developed into centers for trade and learning. Muslim scholars established great libraries and universities. Today, Arabic is the official language of all of the North African countries, and over 95% of the population is Muslim. Religion and government are currently separate in North African countries, although some groups do wish to see Sharia law (law based on Islamic principles).

__________, a cloth traditionally woven by men in Ghana, is worn for important religious or social events.

Kente

The cultures of western and central Africa have unique musical and dancing traditions. In a short paragraph, explain the role that masks play in the dance of western and central Africa.

Masks are an important part of most traditional African societies. They often are used as the central part of rituals or ceremonial dances. Dancers often wear masks to symbolize a deity. Mask artists hold special importance in these cultures.

The San culture is an influential part of southern Africa. As with many African cultures, modern issues threaten this group's traditions. What are some continued challenges to the San Bushmen's way of life?

The San Bushmen already have been pushed onto less desirable land in southern Africa. Even in the Kalahari Desert, they face continued encroachment from farmers and herders. The San traditionally do not have a single leader. Instead, they live in groups of family members. They may experience a lack of a collective voice, making it more difficult for them to fight for their rights as a group. Finally, fewer and fewer San are practicing traditional ways of life as more are moving to urban environments.

How is the African continent diverse? Summarize this continent's diversity in terms of its languages, religions, and cultural influences.

There are more than 50 countries on the African continent. The continent has over 3,000 culture groups, and these groups speak over 800 languages. Africa is home to many religions; in addition to traditional African religions, Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism are practiced. Africa has many external cultural influences. African cultures have been influenced by European, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian cultures.

Identify art forms that are common in western and central Africa. Why are these art forms so important to cultures in this region?

Weaving, sculpting, carving, music, and dance are all important art forms in western and central Africa. These artistic forms serve both practical and ceremonial purposes. They often have religious meaning, and they may be used as a form of expression. Art is also often used to tell a story or as a means of worshiping a deity.

West African music and dance came to the Americas primarily through __________.

slaves

The Masai people of East Africa live in communities that make economic choices based mainly on the habits and customs of their ancestors. One example of Masai's traditional economy would be --

their use of nomadic grazing techniques