Africa



Abstract

This paper would explore the salient features of the continent of Africa, which is referred to as the cradle of the global socio cultural factors. The African continent covers a massive area of 30.2 million km sq., which has a very rich cultural history. The continent is an amalgamated mixture of diverse socio ethnic societies, and the majority of the developed countries have historical links with Africa. The primary objective of this paper is to critically analyze the socio cultural attributes of the continent, and analyze the contemporary African environment. The African region is naturally enriched with abundant natural resources, due to which the developed countries have economic ties with the various African countries. Even with the financial assistance provided by the natural resources present in the land, the African economy is still facing several dilemmas and issues. The paper would seek to identify the legal political environment of the African continent as well.

Abstract2

Introduction4

Discussion5

History of Africa5

Geography6

Climate7

Ecology7

Demographics8

Education9

The African 'Economic & Political Environment'9

Religions12

Conclusion12

References14

Africa

Introduction

Africa is one of the largest continents present in the current global platform, with a surface area which consists of about a quarter of the total Earth's surface. The continent is enriched with vast mineral and socio cultural resources, with the presence of about 54 states. The majority of these 54 states have very distinct socio cultural backgrounds, and their societal infrastructures are highly diversified. The diverse societies present in the African continent have a long history of land and resource based conflicts, which have led to several confrontations. Certain cross border animosities still exists between the various countries of the African continent along with the tribes present within a country. The unique cultural identity is a crucial component of the African region, as it is one of the most socio culturally diverse continents present on the global platform. Compared to the other continents, Africa has significantly higher number of distinct socio cultural entities.

The African continent consists of about 1 billion population, and the majority of this population consists of the young individuals. As a matter of fact, more than 50% of the African population consists of individuals who are 19 years old or younger. The reason why African is considered as the cradle of human civilization is because the source of humanity can be traced back to the region. The Eastern part of Africa is most commonly accepted as the natural habitat of the earliest forms of human beings. The Homo sapiens dating back to circa 200,000 years ago have been found in Ethiopia. The area of the continent is vast that it crosses different temperature zones; in fact it is the only continent which stretches from the Northern temperature to the southern temperature zones.

Discussion

History of Africa

Early Civilizations & Colonialism

The Egyptian civilization, which dawned in the period of 3300 BC is considered as one of the most enlightened and long lasting social entities in the entire human history. The Egyptian Pharaonic civilization was responsible for contributing very significant cultural heritage and artifacts to the global ...