Module 5: Resources
Exchange, trade, power
Africa has always been a rich continent full of raw materials. They were transported by land and sea across the entire continent: along the major river systems and the coasts or with caravans across the Sahara. Complex societies developed at the nodes of the trade networks. Over the last 3,000 years, a fertile coexistence of hunter-gatherers, farmers, cattle breeders, craftsmen, traders and rulers developed.
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In prehistoric times, Africa was already extremely rich in raw materials such as ochre, obsidian, gemstones, gold, copper and iron. These raw materials were not only traded locally, but also far beyond the continent, to Europe, Asia and Arabia.
Ochre, a natural pigment, has been used in Africa for thousands of years and played a central role in the culture and rituals of many African societies. It was used as a dye, for ritual purposes or as a sun and mosquito repellent. Particularly in southern Africa, among the Himba, the use of red ochre is still an important part of daily life and is used for personal hygiene and social status.