The History of Africa

Africa’s history is as vast and rich as the continent itself. From ancient empires and legendary rulers to colonial struggles and independence movements, this quiz will challenge your knowledge of Africa’s incredible past. Whether you know about the pyramids of Kush, the wealth of Mansa Musa, or the struggles against colonial rule, these 14 questions will test your expertise. Dive in and see how well you know one of the most fascinating and influential regions in world history. Will you prove to be an African history expert, or is it time to hit the books?
 
1 of 14
The city of Timbuktu was famous for what during the medieval period?
Naval power
Gold mines
Slave trade
Islamic scholarship and libraries
 
2 of 14
What was the name of the ancient North African city that fought three wars against Rome, ultimately leading to its destruction in 146 BCE?
Leptis Magna
Carthage
Alexandria
Thebes
 
3 of 14
Who was the last ruling pharaoh of Egypt before it became a Roman province in 30 BCE?
Hatshepsut
Ptolemy I
Cleopatra VII
Nefertiti
 
4 of 14
Who was the 19th-century Zulu king who revolutionized military tactics in southern Africa?
Cetshwayo
Shaka Zulu
Dingane
Moshoeshoe
 
5 of 14
Which African country was founded by freed American slaves in the 19th century?
Nigeria
Ghana
Liberia
Sierra Leone
 
6 of 14
The Rwandan Genocide of 1994 primarily involved violence between which two ethnic groups?
Yoruba and Igbo
Zulu and Xhosa
Mandinka and Fulani
Hutu and Tutsi
 
7 of 14
Which African country was the last to gain independence from European rule, in 1990?
Zimbabwe
Mozambique
Namibia
Angola
 
8 of 14
Hint
Which famous Queen of Sheba is said to have visited King Solomon, according to historical and biblical accounts?
Cleopatra
Makeda
Hatshepsut
Nefertari
 
9 of 14
What was the main goal of the Pan-African Congress movements in the early 20th century?
To unite African nations against colonial rule
To establish a single African currency
To promote Christianity in Africa
To create an African Union army
 
10 of 14
The Swahili Coast was historically known for its trade with which foreign civilization?
The Chinese
The Vikings
The Aztecs
The Inca
 
11 of 14
What is the name of the ancient rock-hewn churches in Ethiopia, built in the 12th century?
The Lalibela Churches
The Great Zimbabwe Ruins
The Djenné Mosques
The Pyramids of Meroë
 
12 of 14
What is the oldest known continuously inhabited city in Africa?
Addis Ababa
Lagos
Casablanca
Cairo
 
13 of 14
The Asante Empire (AKA Ashanti Empire) was known for its military strength and resistance against which colonial power?
France
Belgium
Britain
Portugal
 
14 of 14
Which ancient African queen led a war against the Portuguese in the 17th century?
Queen Nanny
Queen Hatshepsut
Queen Nzinga
Queen Amina
 
African History Novice
Looks like Africa’s rich history is still a mystery to you! But don’t worry—this continent has a fascinating past... READ MORE
 
African History Enthusiast
You’ve got a solid grasp on Africa’s history! You know your Mansa Musa from your Menelik II, and you’ve got a good... READ MORE
 
African History Expert!
Impressive! Your knowledge of African history is top-tier. You clearly understand the continent’s rich past, from... READ MORE
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