2.26 SS West Africa

vegetation zones

Areas defined by distinct types of vegetation that prevail, such as forests, savannas, and deserts.

oasis

A fertile spot in the desert where water is found, supporting vegetation and human life.

savanna

Grassland ecosystem characterized by open spaces with scattered trees, typically found in regions with seasonal rainfall.

griot

A West African storyteller or oral historian who preserves the history and traditions of a community.

oral tradition

Cultural material and traditions passed down verbally from one generation to the next.

proverb

A simple and popular saying that gives advice or expresses a truth based on common sense or experience.

caste

A system of social stratification where individuals are assigned to social classes at birth.

kinship

A social relationship based on blood, marriage, or adoption, serving as a primary form of affiliation.

clans

Groups of families or households that share a common ancestor and often work together for mutual benefit.

lineage

Direct descent from an ancestor; the lineal descent traced continuously from an ancestor.

ethnic group

A group of people who share a common cultural heritage, language, or nationality.

scholarship

Financial aid awarded to students to help pay for their education, often based on merit or need.

natural resources

Materials or substances occurring in nature that can be exploited for economic gain.

labor specialization

The process where individuals perform specific tasks in production to enhance efficiency.

Trans-Saharan

Referring to trade or travel across the Sahara Desert, connecting sub-Saharan Africa to the Mediterranean.

caravan

A group of travelers, such as merchants or pilgrims, who journey together across a desert or difficult terrain.

lavish

Sumptuously rich, elaborate, or luxurious; often associated with excessive indulgence.

social system

A structured arrangement of relationships and institutions in society, defining roles and hierarchies.