What were the effects of the growth of the slave trade in Africa?

• A. It led to a higher demand for European trade goods (bar iron, textiles, etc.). They couldn't find enough 'outsiders' to fulfill demand, so African kings went to war with other tribes in order to carry off captives to sell. Violence and kidnapping spread.
• B. It sparked widespread industrialization in West Africa.
• C. It brought lasting peace and stability.
• D. It isolated African communities from European traders.

Answer: (A)

The growth of the slave trade pulled African economies into the Atlantic mercantile system, increasing the demand for European goods like metal, textiles, and firearms. African rulers and traders often pursued captives from rival groups to sell to Europeans, creating incentives for raids and warfare. This pattern spread violence and disruption across communities and shifted political power, rather than bringing industrialization, lasting peace, or isolation from European traders. In short, the slave trade deepened Africa’s connection to European commerce and fueled conflict and instability.