WAEC SSCE - History - 2018

Highlight any five factors that contributed to the  decline of Benin Empire in the 19th century.
     

Answer Details

The Benin Empire, which existed from the 14th to the 19th century in what is now Nigeria, experienced a decline in the 19th century. Some of the factors that contributed to this decline include:

1. British colonization: The arrival of British colonial forces in the late 19th century posed a significant threat to the Benin Empire's sovereignty and autonomy. The British sought to exert their control over the region and expand their colonial holdings, which ultimately resulted in the defeat and subjugation of the Benin Empire.

2. Decline in trade: The Benin Empire had long been a hub of trade, especially in goods such as ivory, palm oil, and slaves. However, the transatlantic slave trade was abolished in the 19th century, and this had a significant impact on the economy of the Benin Empire, as it relied heavily on the trade of slaves.

3. Internal conflicts: The Benin Empire was not immune to internal conflicts and power struggles. In the 19th century, there were several instances of succession crises and disputes over who should rule the empire. These conflicts weakened the empire and made it more vulnerable to external threats.

4. Religious and cultural tensions: The Benin Empire was home to various religious and cultural practices, and these sometimes led to tensions and conflicts. For example, the arrival of Christian missionaries in the region led to clashes between Christian converts and traditionalists, which further destabilized the empire.

5. Technological inferiority: The Benin Empire was at a disadvantage technologically compared to the British colonizers, who had access to superior weapons and military technology. This made it difficult for the Benin Empire to defend itself against the British and other external threats.

Overall, these factors contributed to the decline of the Benin Empire in the 19th century, ultimately leading to its defeat and incorporation into the British colonial system.

Highlight any five negative effects of the  trans-Atlantic slave trade on Nigeria.

Answer Details

The trans-Atlantic slave trade had a profound and lasting impact on Nigeria and its people. Here are five negative effects:

1. Depopulation: The slave trade led to the forced removal of millions of Africans from their homes and families, resulting in significant depopulation and demographic changes across the continent.
2. Cultural Disruption: The slave trade disrupted traditional cultures and social systems, leading to the loss of language, traditions, and cultural heritage.
3. Economic Disintegration: The slave trade depleted the African continent of its human capital and disrupted local economies, leading to long-term economic decline and underdevelopment.
4. Political Instability: The slave trade created power vacuums and destabilized local political systems, contributing to ongoing conflict and instability in many regions.
5. Psychological Trauma: The slave trade had a profound psychological impact on the individuals and communities affected, leading to lasting trauma and intergenerational effects.

These negative effects of the trans-Atlantic slave trade had far-reaching and long-lasting consequences for Nigeria and its people, and continue to shape the country's history and development to this day.

a. List any three nationalists in Nigeria from 1922 to 1960.
b. State any four factors that led to the formation of nationalist movements in Nigeria.
 

Answer Details

a. Three nationalists in Nigeria from 1922 to 1960 were:

1. Nnamdi Azikiwe: He was a journalist, politician, and statesman who played a key role in Nigeria's struggle for independence. He was the first President of Nigeria and also a co-founder of the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC).
2. Obafemi Awolowo: He was a lawyer, politician, and statesman who was a key figure in Nigeria's struggle for independence. He was a co-founder of the Action Group (AG) and served as the Premier of the Western Region.
3. Ahmadu Bello: He was a statesman and politician who was a key figure in Nigeria's struggle for independence. He was the leader of the Northern People's Congress (NPC) and served as the Premier of the Northern Region.

b. Four factors that led to the formation of nationalist movements in Nigeria were:

1. Colonialism: The colonization of Nigeria by the British provided the impetus for nationalist movements to emerge. The imposition of colonial rule and the denial of political rights to Nigerians led to demands for independence.
2. Economic Exploitation: The exploitation of Nigeria's natural resources by the British and the exclusion of Nigerians from the benefits of their own resources led to demands for self-rule and independence.
3. Education: The growth of education in Nigeria, particularly the emergence of an educated elite, provided the intellectual foundation for nationalist movements. Education enabled Nigerians to become aware of their rights and to demand self-rule and independence.
4. Pan-Africanism: The rise of pan-Africanism and the desire for African unity provided inspiration for nationalist movements in Nigeria. The ideas of pan-Africanism, particularly the principles of self-rule and independence, were embraced by Nigerian nationalists and became a driving force behind the struggle for independence.

Explain any five features of the economy of the Igala people in pre-colonial period.

Answer Details

The Igala people, an ethnic group in Nigeria, had a diverse economy in the pre-colonial period. Some of the features of their economy include:

1. Agriculture: The Igala people were mainly farmers, cultivating crops such as yams, cassava, and maize. They also engaged in fishing and hunting, especially in the riverine areas.
2. Trade: The Igala people were active traders, both within their region and with other neighboring communities. They traded in goods such as salt, kola nuts, and palm oil, among others.
3. Craftsmanship: The Igala people were skilled in various forms of craftsmanship, including pottery, weaving, blacksmithing, and woodcarving. These crafts were not only for personal use but also for trading purposes.
4. Currency: The Igala people used cowries, brass rods, and other forms of currency for trading purposes. Cowries were particularly important as they were widely accepted in the region as a medium of exchange.
5. Social organization: The Igala people had a complex social organization that supported economic activities. The king, for example, played an important role in economic matters, including regulating trade and settling disputes. There were also various guilds and associations, such as the blacksmiths' guild and the palm wine tappers' association, which helped to organize economic activities within the community.

Overall, the Igala people had a diverse and thriving economy in the pre-colonial period, with agriculture, trade, craftsmanship, currency, and social organization all playing important roles.

In what five ways can the pre-colonial history of Nigeria be reconstructed?

Answer Details

The pre-colonial history of Nigeria can be reconstructed in several ways, including:

1. Oral Tradition: This involves the use of oral history passed down from generation to generation, through storytelling, songs, and other forms of communication. This can provide insights into the social, economic, and political structures of pre-colonial Nigerian societies.
2. Archaeology: This involves the study of physical evidence such as artifacts, buildings, and other material remains left behind by pre-colonial Nigerian societies. Archaeological excavations can provide information about the cultural practices, technology, and trade networks of these societies.
3. Anthropology: This involves the study of human societies and cultures. Anthropologists can reconstruct pre-colonial Nigerian societies by examining their social structures, belief systems, and ways of life. This can be done through fieldwork, participant observation, and interviews with members of modern-day Nigerian communities.
4. Written Records: Written records such as journals, diaries, and official documents can provide valuable information about pre-colonial Nigerian societies. This can include records of trade and commerce, diplomatic relations, and religious practices.
5. Linguistics: The study of languages can provide insights into the cultural and social practices of pre-colonial Nigerian societies. This can be done by examining the vocabulary, syntax, and grammar of Nigerian languages, and comparing them to other languages in the region. Linguistic analysis can reveal the ways in which pre-colonial Nigerian societies interacted with each other, and with other societies in the region.

State any five reasons for the Amalgamation of Nigeria in 1914.

Answer Details

The amalgamation of Nigeria in 1914 was the result of a number of factors and considerations. Here are five reasons for the amalgamation:

1. Administrative Convenience: The British colonial administration sought to simplify and streamline its governance of Nigeria by merging the disparate territories and ethnic groups into a single administrative unit.
2. Economic Interests: The amalgamation was seen as a way to promote economic development and facilitate trade and commerce across the region.
3. Military Strategy: The amalgamation was also driven by military considerations, as the British sought to consolidate their control over the region and secure their borders against potential threats.
4. Missionary Influence: Missionary organizations and religious groups played a role in advocating for the amalgamation, as they saw it as a way to further their religious and educational goals in Nigeria.
5. Strategic Interests: The British also had strategic interests in the region, including access to the Niger River and control over the oil-rich Niger Delta. The amalgamation was seen as a way to secure these interests and maintain British dominance in the region.

These factors all played a role in the decision to amalgamate Nigeria in 1914, and the resulting political and administrative structure has had a lasting impact on the country's history and development.

Outline any five benefits Nigeria has enjoyed as a member of the United Nations Organization (UN/UNO).

Answer Details

Nigeria, as a member of the United Nations Organization (UN/UNO), has enjoyed numerous benefits, including: 1. Promotion of Peace and Security: As a member of the UN, Nigeria has been able to participate in peacekeeping missions around the world, contributing troops and resources to maintain global peace and security. 2. Access to Humanitarian Aid: Nigeria has received aid and support from the UN in times of crisis, including assistance with natural disasters, famine, and other humanitarian emergencies. 3. Economic Development: Nigeria has had the opportunity to participate in various UN-sponsored programs, including those aimed at promoting sustainable economic development, poverty reduction, and improved healthcare. 4. Enhanced International Relations: Being a member of the UN has allowed Nigeria to strengthen its ties with other countries, as well as to participate in various international forums and conferences, providing opportunities for greater cooperation and collaboration. 5. Access to Technical Assistance: The UN has provided technical assistance to Nigeria in areas such as education, health, and environmental management, helping to build the country's capacity and improve the lives of its citizens.

a. Mention  any three city states of the Niger  Delta that had trade links with the Europeans.
b. Highlight any four roles played by King Jaja of Opobo in the commercial  activities of the Niger Delta.
 

Answer Details

a. Three city-states of the Niger Delta that had trade links with the Europeans were:

1. Bonny: Bonny was a major trading center in the Niger Delta and had trade links with the Europeans as early as the 16th century. The town was famous for its palm oil, which was a valuable commodity in Europe.

2. Opobo: Opobo was founded in the 19th century by King Jaja and quickly became an important center of trade. The town was known for its palm oil, rubber, and timber, all of which were in high demand in Europe.

3. Brass: Brass was another major trading center in the Niger Delta and had trade links with the Europeans dating back to the 16th century. The town was known for its palm oil, which was a major export commodity.

b. Four roles played by King Jaja of Opobo in the commercial activities of the Niger Delta were:

1. Promotion of Trade: King Jaja played a key role in promoting trade in the Niger Delta, particularly in the palm oil and timber industries. He established Opobo as a major center of trade, which attracted European merchants to the region.

2. Control of Trade: King Jaja was able to assert control over the trade routes in the Niger Delta, which allowed him to monopolize trade in the region. This gave him significant power and influence in the region.

3. Negotiation of Trade Agreements: King Jaja was skilled in negotiating trade agreements with European merchants, which allowed him to secure favorable terms for the people of Opobo and the wider Niger Delta region.

4. Resistance to Colonialism: King Jaja resisted attempts by the British to control the trade routes and impose their authority over the Niger Delta region. His resistance to colonialism made him a hero to many in the Niger Delta and inspired other leaders to resist colonial rule.

Highlight any five reasons for the need to make the study of West African history compulsory in Nigerian schools.
 

Answer Details

Here are five reasons for the need to make the study of West African history compulsory in Nigerian schools:

1. To promote cultural awareness: Studying West African history can help students develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for their own cultural heritage and the cultural diversity of their country.
2. To foster national unity: By learning about the history of West Africa, students can gain a greater appreciation for the commonalities and shared experiences of people across the region, which can help foster a sense of national unity.
3. To encourage critical thinking: The study of history requires students to analyze and interpret information, which can help develop their critical thinking skills.
4. To promote civic responsibility: Studying West African history can help students understand the role of citizenship and civic responsibility in society, and inspire them to take an active role in shaping their communities.
5. To provide a more comprehensive education: Including the study of West African history as a compulsory subject can help provide a more well-rounded and comprehensive education for Nigerian students.

Overall, studying West African history can provide numerous benefits for Nigerian students, including promoting cultural awareness, fostering national unity, encouraging critical thinking, promoting civic responsibility, and providing a more comprehensive education.

a. List any three articles of trade exported to  North Africa from Western Sudan during the trans-Saharan trade.
b. Highlight any four factors that contributed to the  decline of the trans-Saharan trade.

Answer Details

a. Three articles of trade exported to North Africa from Western Sudan during the trans-Saharan trade were:

1. Gold: Gold was one of the most important commodities traded from West Africa to North Africa during the trans-Saharan trade. The region had abundant gold deposits, which were highly valued by North African traders.
2. Salt: Salt was another important commodity traded during the trans-Saharan trade. North African traders needed salt for food preservation and other purposes, and the West African region had abundant salt deposits.
3. Slaves: Unfortunately, the trans-Saharan trade also involved the trade of slaves from West Africa to North Africa. This was a significant part of the trade, and many West Africans were captured and sold into slavery in North Africa.

b. Four factors that contributed to the decline of the trans-Saharan trade were:

1. The rise of sea trade: The development of sea trade routes in the 15th century made it easier and cheaper to trade with Europe and other regions, reducing the demand for trans-Saharan trade.
2. Political instability: The region was marked by political instability and warfare, which disrupted trade routes and made them unsafe for traders.
3. Decline of West African empires: The decline of West African empires such as Ghana, Mali, and Songhai also contributed to the decline of the trans-Saharan trade. These empires had played a key role in facilitating trade in the region, and their decline led to a disruption in trade routes.
4. Technological advances: The development of new technologies such as firearms and other weapons meant that West African traders were at a disadvantage when trading with North African traders, who had access to these new technologies.

Overall, the decline of the trans-Saharan trade was influenced by a combination of factors including the rise of sea trade, political instability, the decline of West African empires, and technological advances.