Trade
Not only did the Nile river make the Kingdom flourish in
agriculture, but it was used as a major trade route. This river along with the
Red sea made the Kingdom of Kush a very accessible location. It was a
meeting point of traders coming from Egypt, Europe, and the Mediterranean. The Kushites
traded Gold, Ivory, Ebony, Ostrich eggs, Feathers, various animals, and also
slaves. This area was known as the Iron Capital of Ancient Africa. The Egyptians in return offered papyrus sheets, wheat, barley, and
gold.
agriculture, but it was used as a major trade route. This river along with the
Red sea made the Kingdom of Kush a very accessible location. It was a
meeting point of traders coming from Egypt, Europe, and the Mediterranean. The Kushites
traded Gold, Ivory, Ebony, Ostrich eggs, Feathers, various animals, and also
slaves. This area was known as the Iron Capital of Ancient Africa. The Egyptians in return offered papyrus sheets, wheat, barley, and
gold.
Social Structure and Political Authority
The Kushites lived in tribes also known as chiefdoms. In general, work was divided equally among all people (other than slaves). Equality was very important in these tribes and all people were treated equally. However, every tribe needs some sort of hierarchy. In the Kingdom of Kush, the elders were given slightly more power. At the head of the tribe was a chief. people could become the chief by being the strongest, wisest, or most religious. Although chiefs and elders were more respected, and given more power, they still participated in the tribe.