Cultural Geography of Africa Answers

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: 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.

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: 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).

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: The Tuareg are pastoral nomads living in North Africa. This group is descended from earlier Berber groups. Tuareg speak both Berber and Arabic. They are often called the “blue people” because of traditional indigo dyes used in their clothing. They are well-known herders and salt traders, and they cross the Sahara with large camel caravans of salt. They are Muslim, but practice their own version of Islam, which they mix with traditional animist beliefs.

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: 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.

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: 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.

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: 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.