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East Africa: Cradle of Humanity

Free · Ages 4–8 · About 2 minutes to read aloud · Also available in French
East Africa: Cradle of Humanity

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East Africa is often called the 'Cradle of Humanity' because scientists have found some of the oldest human fossils there! For centuries, the coast of East Africa was a bustling trading hub where African, Arab, and Indian cultures mixed to create the Swahili culture and language. During the 19th and 20th centuries, European countries like Britain and Germany colonized the area. After years of struggle and peaceful protests, countries like Kenya and Tanzania won their independence in the 1960s.

The people of East Africa are incredibly diverse. You might know about the Maasai people, famous for their red clothing and incredible jumping dances. East Africa is also home to Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa, and the Great Rift Valley. Today, the region includes beautiful countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. Millions of tourists visit every year to see majestic animals like lions, elephants, and giraffes on safari.

Quiz

Questions to talk about afterwards

What is East Africa often called?
  • The Cradle of Humanity
  • The Frozen Land
  • The Desert Kingdom
  • The New World
Show answer
The Cradle of Humanity
What tall mountain is located in East Africa?
  • Mount Kilimanjaro
  • Mount Everest
  • Mount Fuji
  • The Alps
Show answer
Mount Kilimanjaro
What culture was formed on the coast of East Africa from a mix of African and Arab influences?
  • Swahili
  • Zulu
  • Yoruba
  • Igbo
Show answer
Swahili
Which group of people in East Africa is famous for their red clothing and jumping dances?
  • The Maasai
  • The Inuit
  • The Celts
  • The Maya
Show answer
The Maasai
Which of these countries is in East Africa?
  • Kenya
  • Nigeria
  • Morocco
  • Jamaica
Show answer
Kenya
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