Includes index. Social Studies grade 9 (2009). From the first hunting and gathering societies to the great Nubian kingdoms of Kush, Africa has for centuries been the center of great cultural activity across its mountains, deserts, and rainforests. Topics include: Zimbabwe, Aksum, Meroe, Ghana, Mali, and Songhai; the rise of hundreds of regional dialects; pyramids, temples, royal tombs, and palaces; irrigation and other farming techniques; Trans-Sahara caravan routes and trade with the rest of the world; the discovery of mineral resources; an oral storytelling culture; and music and dance.