Unit 2: Mapungubwe – the first state in Southern Africa

Unit 2

Mapungubwe – the first state in Southern Africa

Learning aims

After completing this unit, learners must be able to do the following:

● Know and understand basic concepts. ● Understand and explain the changes in the Limpopo Valley between 900 and 1300. ● Know about settlements in the Limpopo Valley preceding Mapungubwe. ● Study Mapungubwe – inhabitants’ social structure and lifestyle. ● Understand archaeology and the importance of archaeological studies and preservation of historic artefacts. ● Describe the trade that took place. ● Continuously exercise various cognitive levels: define, describe, explain, evaluate, analyse, etc.

Introduction

In this unit, learners will learn about Mapungubwe, how things have changed since K2 and Schroda and how Mapungubwe was established. Discuss the following words with the learners:

Important terminology

State Social classes Status Status symbols Trade Goods Profitable