1. Homework Test on Islam Friday. 40 multiple choice questions.
Review sheet due Friday (optional)

2. Do Now
How could it be argued that the Muslim religion and culture granted women more rights than they had in most other civilizations 1,000 years ago?

3. Do Now
As prejudice against Muslim-Americans has grown in recent years, a growing number of young Muslim-American women are choosing to wear the hijab as a symbol of pride and solidarity. Do you think this is a good idea, or is it more likely to create tension, divisions and prejudice in American society?

4. Aim #8: How was African society shaped by geographic and religious characteristics?
February 7, 2017

5. I. Africa’s Geography Diverse Climates and Terrains
Northern Africa is largely desert (Sahara): Very dry, extremely hot temperatures during the day, little vegetation. Contains plentiful salt mines.
Sahel Region – Sub Saharan. Connects northern Africa to the Savanna.
Savanna – Grassy plains in central and southern Africa. Generally have good soil, rain to support farming. Home to many of Africa’s best gold mines.
Rainforests along the equator

6. II. The Bantu Migrations (500 B.C. – 1500 A.D.)
One of the largest migrations of people in history.
Due to a shortage of land on the Niger Delta Basin, the Bantu people scattered throughout Africa over the course of 2,000 years. As they moved, they spread three things.
Bantu language
Iron technology
Agricultural (farming) techniques.

7. III. Religion
Animism - Belief that all living and non-living things have spirits that can bring good or bad fortune into human lives and need to be worshipped or given offerings. Departed ancestors were among these spirits.

8. Similarities between Animism and Monotheistic Religions
Understanding of human need for a stronger power.
Holy figures who explain the will of god/spirits
Awareness of the spiritual realm
Life after death

9. Differences between Animism and Monotheistic Religions
Many gods or spirits.
Often no scriptures.
Some use magic as well as religious practice.
Can’t have a personal relationship with the spirits – need shamans and healers to connect to them.
Some spirits are evil or troublesome.
Spirits are local rather than universal.

10. Concluding Question
Which do you think will play the more significant role in shaping the culture of African society: geography or religion? Why?