Question

Explain the impact of cultural diffusion on African civilizations during the classical period

Answer 1

Explain the impact of cultural diffusion on African civilizations during the classical period

During the New Imperialism times, many colonies were being settled on Africa. In search of land, expedition, and resources, the settlers had to adapt to a new environment and society quite different from them. Nevertheless, in their efforts of adaptation, their own culture was the one trying to overshadow the natives' culture.  

Africa was almost falling under total dominion of the European countries. The Africans had to adapt to the Europeans' orders, as their tribes were segregated and a new culture was trying to be implemented on the natives, as the Europeans deemed their culture as superior. They tried to teach children about poetry, non-Christians about Christianity, and farmers about growing crops with different methods. They also taught them about politics, history and traditions about the settlers' culture.

However, the settlers (Britain, Spain, France, Portugal, Germany, Belgium, and Italy) exercised their power differently, there were some that attempted to suppress the natives' cultures (French), while others were focused on the gain from the colonies (Germans, Belgians) or others who were not able to fully develop their colonies (Portuguese, Spanish).

Answer 2

Classical Period consists of 8th century BC to 5th/6th century AD centered on the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea.

This period was known as an interlocking of cultural diffusion of Greek and Roman cultures and was known as Greco-Roman World.

Impact of this cultural diffusion on African society was :

• They conquered and ruled  North Africa for 14 centuries approximately.
• politics
• philosophy
• sculpture
• literature
• farming
• architecture