European Exploration and Precolonial Africa

These flashcards cover key concepts related to European exploration and precolonial Africa, highlighting the importance of preconditions, human agency, and the misconceptions surrounding African civilizations.

What are preconditions in the context of historical change?

Preconditions are the circumstances or events that must exist for a particular change or event to occur.

What role does human agency play in causing change?

Human agency refers to the conscious decision-making of individuals that influences outcomes and changes.

What is an example of change caused by factors without agency?

Natural disasters, such as droughts or floods, can cause change without human agency.

How does preparation affect the outcomes of natural disasters?

Preparation can determine the severity of outcomes, like famine during a drought, if people have not adequately prepared.

How did precolonial African civilizations compare to European ones in 1450 according to the lecture?

Precolonial African civilizations were at a similar level of development to European civilizations in 1450.

What misconceptions about Africa does the lecture seek to address?

The lecture aims to counter stereotypes of Africa as 'backwards' or 'uncivilized' by showing its complex societies.

Who is Prester John and why was he significant in European exploration narratives?

Prester John was a legendary Christian king thought to rule a powerful kingdom in Africa, motivating European exploration to find him.

What were some motivations for European exploration of Africa?

Motivations included the search for gold, resources, the spread of Christianity, and finding alliances like Prester John.

What technological advancements enabled European exploration?

Advancements included improved navigation tools like the compass, understanding of ocean currents, and ships with triangular sails.

Why is the term 'discovery' problematic according to the lecture?

It implies that places only became known when Europeans arrived, disregarding the existence of established civilizations there.