Contextualize the argument.
Sample essay excerpt:
The effects of the development of trans-Saharan trade networks on West African states can be better understood by considering the earlier development of cities and states in the region. Due to the difficulty of raising livestock and growing crops in the hot Sahara, the economy of West Africa lagged behind that of North Africa until the growth of trade. Likewise, while a sophisticated civilization developed in the Niger Valley after 300 BCE, growing trade cities at the time were not joined into a larger empire. The ongoing development of trans-Saharan trade, however, provided the resources for economic and political change in the region.
Review the sample essay excerpt above. First, explain how to provide contextualization in an essay. Then, explain how this excerpt explains the context of the prompt. (15 points)