HISTORY-FORM1-QUESTIONS-ANSWERS

Objectives: HISTORY-FORM1-QUESTIONS-ANSWERS

Form One History - Question 1

Form One History - Question 1

Topic: Sources and Importance of History

Q1: Discuss the sources from which history is reconstructed.

Answer: History is reconstructed using various sources. These include:

  • Oral Traditions: Stories, songs, and legends passed by word of mouth. Example: Stories of Chief Mkwawa in Tanzania.
  • Archaeology: Study of past remains like tools, pottery, bones. Example: Olduvai Gorge fossils by Dr. Louis Leakey.
  • Written Records: Books, letters, newspapers. Example: Diaries of explorers like David Livingstone.
  • Historical Sites: Places preserved for historical events. Example: Isimila stone age site.
  • Anthropology & Linguistics: Study of human culture and language helps trace migration.

Q2: What is the importance of studying history in human development?

  • It helps us understand our origin and identity.
  • It teaches us mistakes and achievements of the past.
  • History builds patriotism and unity.
  • It provides career opportunities (e.g., historian, archaeologist).
  • We learn how societies changed over time (economic, political, social).

Q3: What are the limitations of oral tradition?

  • Unreliable: Story may change when passed orally.
  • Biased: May favor a certain group or leader.
  • Lack of exact dates: Makes it hard to organize events chronologically.
  • Subject to memory loss: Elders may forget facts.

Q4: Explain advantages and disadvantages of archaeology as a source.

Advantages:
  • Provides physical evidence (e.g., bones, tools).
  • Helps date ancient history through carbon dating.
  • Unbiased since it relies on real objects.
Disadvantages:
  • Time-consuming and expensive.
  • Interpretation may be difficult without context.
  • Destruction of sites during excavation.

Q5: Define historical sites and list advantages/disadvantages of using them as sources.

Definition: Historical sites are physical locations preserved due to their cultural or historical significance.

Example: Bagamoyo slave port, Kilwa ruins, Kalenga museum.

Advantages:
  • Provide direct connection to the past.
  • Good for research and tourism.
  • Easy to preserve and revisit.
Disadvantages:
  • Some sites are remote and inaccessible.
  • Can be damaged by natural or human actions.
  • Require high maintenance cost.
📊 Visual Aid: Comparison of Sources of History
History - Evolution of Man, Technology & Environment

Form One History

Topic 2: Evolution of Man, Technology & Environment

1. Summarise the process of human evolution in East Africa

Human evolution is the gradual development of human beings from early ancestors. East Africa is considered the "Cradle of Mankind" because many ancient human fossils were discovered here (e.g., Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania).

  • Australopithecus: First upright walking ancestors (e.g. Lucy).
  • Homo habilis: “Man of skill” – first tool maker.
  • Homo erectus: Walked fully upright, discovered fire.
  • Homo sapiens: Modern man, intelligent and capable of abstract thinking.
2. Discuss the technological developments of early humans

Early humans developed various technologies to survive and improve life:

  • Stone tools: Sharp stones for cutting meat and plants.
  • Fire: Used for cooking, warmth, light, and protection.
  • Hunting weapons: Spears, arrows, and clubs.
  • Pottery: Used for storing water and food.
  • Farming tools: Simple hoes made of stone and wood.
3. Effects of iron technology on African societies

Iron technology had big impacts on African life:

  • Improved farming: Strong iron hoes made agriculture easier and more productive.
  • Growth of settlements: More food led to population growth.
  • New industries: Blacksmithing became a skilled trade.
  • Trade increase: Iron tools were traded between tribes.
  • Weapons for defense: Iron spears and arrows helped protect communities.
4. Differences between Iron Age and Stone Age people
Stone Age Iron Age
Used stones and bones as tools Used iron tools and weapons
Hunters and gatherers Farmers and traders
Simple shelters and caves Built permanent houses
Less skilled in shaping tools Skilled blacksmiths and metal workers
5. How did controlling fire change human life?

Controlling fire was a major breakthrough:

  • Cooked food: Made food soft, safe, and tasty.
  • Warmth: Helped survive cold nights.
  • Light: Extended working hours at night.
  • Protection: Scared wild animals away.
  • Tool making: Heat was used in shaping weapons and tools.
Bonus: Human Evolution Diagram (Click to View)
Form One History - Development of Economic Activities

Form One History Questions & Answers

Topic 3: Development of Economic Activities & Their Impact

Q1: Outline effects of long‑distance trade on East Africa.
  • Introduction: Long-distance trade involved exchange of goods across regions (e.g. between East Africa and Arabia/India).
  • Spread of Islam: Arab traders brought Islam, leading to Swahili culture and use of Arabic script.
  • New towns: Coastal towns like Kilwa, Mombasa, and Zanzibar developed due to trade.
  • Social changes: Introduced foreign goods like beads, cloth, and firearms.
  • Slave trade: Demand for labor led to slavery, which negatively impacted African societies.
  • New languages: Kiswahili emerged as a trade language blending Bantu and Arabic.
Q2: Trace development of handcraft and mining in pre‑colonial Africa.
  • Handcraft: Communities produced tools, baskets, pottery, and leather items using local skills and materials.
  • Mining: Gold, copper, salt, and iron were mined using simple tools like hammers, fire-setting, and digging sticks.
  • Iron tools: Increased agricultural production and defense capability.
  • Trade influence: Gold from regions like Mwanza and Tabora was traded for foreign goods.
  • Example: Wangoni blacksmiths were famous for spear making.
Q3: Factors for rise of Trans‑Saharan trade.
  • Camels: Introduction of camels (ships of the desert) allowed travel across Sahara.
  • Gold and salt: High demand for West African gold and North African salt.
  • Islam: Spread of Islam promoted trade among Islamic communities.
  • Stable empires: Empires like Ghana and Mali provided security for trade routes.
  • Caravan routes: Well-established caravan routes connected regions (e.g. from Timbuktu to Tripoli).
Q4: Reasons for decline of Trans‑Saharan trade.
  • Colonial conquest: Europeans disrupted African control over trade.
  • Sea routes: Opening of Atlantic Ocean trade routes reduced need for Saharan routes.
  • Wars: Internal conflicts and insecurity made travel dangerous.
  • Harsh desert: Climate made long travel difficult and risky.
  • New technology: Trains and roads replaced camel caravans.
Q5: Trade’s role in formation of states in Western Tanzania.
  • Wealth accumulation: Chiefs gained wealth and power from controlling trade, leading to formation of kingdoms like Nyamwezi and Ha.
  • Centralized rule: Leaders organized taxes and armies using wealth from trade.
  • Urban growth: Trade centers became towns, attracting more people and activities.
  • Military power: Profits allowed purchase of weapons for defense and expansion.
  • Example: The Nyamwezi used trade to grow their influence and establish strong leadership under Mirambo.
Q6: Visual Aid — Draw maps of trade routes

History Form One - Social and Political Systems

Form One History - Social and Political Systems in Pre‑colonial Africa

1. How did environment and economy shape political organization in East Africa?

Answer:

  • Definition: Political organization refers to how power, leadership, and decision-making are structured in a society.
  • Influence of Environment: Areas with fertile land (e.g. Kilimanjaro, Usambara) supported agriculture, which led to formation of permanent settlements and kingdoms like Chagga and Haya.
  • Influence of Economy: Communities involved in trade (e.g. along the coast) had more organized leadership to control trade routes, taxes, and security (e.g. Swahili city-states).
  • Nomadic pastoralists (e.g. Maasai) used clan elders instead of centralized kings because they moved often and had no permanent base.
2. Why did pastoral groups adopt age-set systems?

Answer:

  • Definition: Age-set system is a form of social organization where people of the same age group share responsibilities.
  • Reasons:
    • To organize defense and warfare — warriors of same age group protected cattle.
    • Helped in herding — young boys herded together, learning responsibility.
    • Promoted discipline and unity within community — older men became advisors or elders.
    • Example: The Maasai of Tanzania and Kenya divided boys into "morans" (warriors) and elders.
3. Factors leading to state formation in pre‑colonial Africa

Answer:

  • Strong leadership: Leaders with charisma and wisdom (e.g. Mirambo of Nyamwezi) united tribes.
  • Trade: Trade routes brought wealth and enabled leaders to hire soldiers and expand territory (e.g. Buganda Kingdom).
  • War and conquest: Powerful groups like the Ngoni conquered others and established new states.
  • Agriculture: Productive farming allowed for food surplus and population growth (e.g. Rwenzururu region).
  • Religion and spiritual power: Some rulers claimed divine powers which gave them authority (e.g. Ethiopian emperors).
4. Characteristics of centralized vs decentralized societies

Answer:

Centralized Society Decentralized Society
Had a single powerful leader like a king or chief (e.g. Buganda, Zulu) Power shared among clan elders (e.g. Nyamwezi, Gogo)
Organized army and taxes No standing army or taxation system
Permanent capital and administration Mobile or scattered settlements
Clear hierarchy of leadership Decisions made through consensus
📊 Visual Aid: Features of Societies
Form One History - Interactions Among African Peoples

Form One History – Interactions Among African Peoples

1. Account for the Ngoni migrations and their effects

Definition: The Ngoni migration refers to the movement of the Ngoni people from South Africa to East and Central Africa during the 19th century due to internal wars (e.g., Shaka Zulu’s Mfecane).

Reasons for migration:

  • Expansion of Zulu empire under Shaka Zulu
  • Pressure from stronger tribes and internal conflicts
  • Search for fertile land and pastures
  • Escape from famine and drought
  • Desire to dominate and expand militarily

Effects:

  • Destruction of local kingdoms like the Hehe and Yao
  • Introduction of new military tactics like the cowhorn formation
  • Creation of hybrid cultures (intermarriage, language)
  • Political instability in East and Central Africa
  • Widespread displacement of communities
Visual Aid: Ngoni Migration Path

2. Why East African societies were vulnerable during the Ngoni invasion

  • Use of outdated weapons like spears vs. Ngoni’s shields and short stabbing spears
  • Disunity among East African tribes
  • Lack of strong standing armies
  • Element of surprise and new fighting techniques like cowhorn formation
  • Political disorganization and civil conflicts

3. Consequences of the Ngoni migration

  • Destruction of weak tribes and absorption of others
  • Spread of Ngoni language and customs
  • Strengthening of military tactics among local tribes
  • Formation of resistance groups like the Hehe under Mkwawa
  • Change in settlement patterns due to displacement

4. Rise and fall of Ghana, Buganda, Oyo, Karagwe Empires

Ghana Empire: Rose due to gold trade and taxation of traders. Fell due to invasions (e.g., Almoravids), internal rebellion.

Buganda: Rose through strong leadership (Kabakas), fertile land, centralized government. Declined due to colonial interference and internal power struggles.

Oyo Empire: Prosperous due to cavalry, trading in kola nuts and slaves. Fell due to internal disunity and British colonization.

Karagwe: Developed due to banana and cattle economy, and iron working. Declined due to conflicts and weak leadership.

5. Role of gold in Ghana Empire’s rise

  • Gold attracted traders from North Africa and Europe
  • Led to the development of cities like Kumbi Saleh
  • Gave financial power to kings (Ghana rulers controlled gold mines)
  • Gold trade allowed taxation, which funded the army and administration

Example: Arab traders from North Africa traded salt for gold in Ghana using silent trade to avoid conflict.

6. Impact of Kenya-Uganda Railway, colonial economy, labor and taxation systems

Kenya-Uganda Railway: Helped move goods and soldiers. Encouraged European settlement in fertile highlands.

Colonial Economy: Introduced cash crops like coffee and tea. Forced Africans into money-based economy.

Labor: Africans forced to work on settler farms, railways, mines under harsh conditions.

Taxation: Hut tax and poll tax forced Africans to earn money → led to labor migration.

Conclusion: All these weakened African traditional systems and increased colonial control.

Prepared by: Sir H. Mwala | © 2025 MwalaRean

History Form One - Chronology and Dating Methods

Form One History - Chronology and Dating Methods

Question 6:

  1. Which scientific method is used to date remains older than 5,000 years?
  2. Define key timing terms: century and millennium.

Answers:

1. Scientific Dating Methods for Remains Older Than 5,000 Years

The two most common scientific methods to date ancient remains are:

  • Carbon-14 Dating (Radiocarbon Dating): This method is best for dating organic materials (like bones, wood, or charcoal) that are up to about 50,000 years old. It measures the decay of the radioactive isotope carbon-14 which living things absorb while alive.
  • Potassium-Argon Dating: This method is used to date very old volcanic rocks and ash deposits that are older than 5,000 years, often up to millions of years old. It measures the decay of potassium-40 to argon-40.

In summary: For remains older than 5,000 years (especially ancient rocks), Potassium-Argon dating is preferred because Carbon-14 dating becomes unreliable beyond that age.

Carbon-14 Dating Illustration

Figure: Carbon-14 dating process (Public domain image from Wikimedia Commons)

2. Definitions of Key Timing Terms

Century: A century is a period of 100 years. For example, the 20th century covers the years from 1901 to 2000. Centuries help historians organize events in chunks of 100 years for easier understanding.

Millennium: A millennium is a period of 1,000 years. For example, the 1st millennium AD refers to the years 1 to 1000 AD. It helps historians track very long periods of time, like the transition from ancient to medieval times.

The timeline below helps visualize centuries and millennia.

History Q7: Historical Sites & Trade Terms

Form One History - Question 7

Historical Sites & Trade Terms

Question:
  1. Identify these historical sites: Olduvai Gorge, Isimila, Kondoa Irangi, Kalenga.
  2. Define local trade and describe methods of salt production in pre-colonial Africa.
  3. Explain factors that led to the development of trade in pre-colonial African societies.
Answers:
1. Historical Sites
  • Olduvai Gorge (Tanzania): One of the most important archaeological sites in the world. It contains fossil remains and tools of early humans (Hominids) dating back millions of years. It helped scientists understand human evolution.
  • Isimila (Tanzania): Famous for prehistoric stone tools and animal fossils found there, showing human life and environment in the Stone Age.
  • Kondoa Irangi (Tanzania): Known for ancient rock paintings and caves that provide evidence of early human culture and beliefs.
  • Kalenga (Tanzania): An important historical site that was a political center of the Hehe people during pre-colonial times, including the warrior chief Mkwawa’s stronghold.
2. Local Trade & Salt Production

Local trade refers to buying and selling goods within a limited geographical area, usually between neighboring villages or communities. It mainly involved exchange of food crops, pottery, tools, and livestock.

Methods of salt production:

  • Mining rock salt: People dug salt from natural salt deposits or salt mines.
  • Evaporation of salt water: Salt was extracted by boiling or allowing salty water (from lakes or springs) to evaporate, leaving salt crystals behind.
  • Salt trading centers: Salt was sometimes processed in special areas and traded locally or long-distance because of its importance for food preservation and human health.
3. Factors Leading to Trade Development in Pre-Colonial African Societies
  • Availability of Valuable Goods: Products like salt, gold, ivory, iron tools, and textiles created demand for trade.
  • Geographical Location: Areas near rivers, lakes, and coastlines had easier access to trade routes.
  • Technological Advances: Development of better transportation methods, such as use of camels in the Sahara and boats on lakes and rivers.
  • Political Stability: Strong kingdoms and states (like Ghana and Buganda) provided security for traders.
  • Social & Cultural Exchanges: Trade encouraged interaction between different ethnic groups, spreading ideas, languages, and religions.
  • Specialization: Different communities specialized in producing certain goods, creating interdependence and promoting exchange.
Interactive Map of Historical Sites

Click the buttons to see descriptions of key sites:

Click a site name above to learn more.

Reference Book: N/A

Author name: SIR H.A.Mwala Work email: biasharaboraofficials@gmail.com
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