Explain the factors that led to development of slave trade in East Africa during the 19th Century

The development of the slave trade in East Africa during the 19th century was influenced by several factors:

1. High Demand for Slaves: There was a significant demand for slaves in various parts of the world, including the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas. Slaves were needed for labor on plantations, in mines, as soldiers, and as domestic servants.
2. Economic Incentives: The profitability of the slave trade attracted many traders. Slaves were considered valuable commodities, and their trade brought substantial economic benefits to those involved. The abolition of the transatlantic slave trade in the early 19th century shifted the focus to East Africa. The region became a new source of slaves for the global market1.
3. Arab and Persian Influence: The arrival of Arab and Persian traders from the Middle East played a crucial role in the development of the slave trade. These traders established trade routes and markets, facilitating the exchange of slaves for goods.
4. Inter-Tribal Conflicts: Frequent inter-tribal wars and conflicts in the region provided a steady supply of captives who were sold into slavery. Victorious tribes often captured and sold members of defeated tribes.
5. Strategic Location: East Africa’s strategic location along the Indian Ocean facilitated the transportation of slaves to markets in the Middle East, India, and the Americas
6. Caravan Trade Routes: The existence of well-established caravan trade routes made it easier for traders to penetrate the interior regions and acquire slaves. These routes facilitated the movement of slaves from the interior to the coast.
7. European Demand: The abolition of the transatlantic slave trade in West Africa led European traders to seek alternative sources of slaves. This shift increased the demand for slaves from East Africa.
8. Development of Slave Markets: The establishment of major slave markets in places like Zanzibar and Kilwa significantly boosted the trade. These markets could export large numbers of slaves annually.
9. Industrial Revolution: The Industrial Revolution in Europe increased the demand for raw materials, which could be produced more efficiently with slave labor. This demand further fueled the slave trade.
10. Decline of Other Trades: The decline of other profitable trades, such as the gold trade, left the slave trade as one of the few lucrative options for traders in the region.

11. Local Practices: Some African societies had existing practices of slavery and raiding, which were integrated into the larger slave trade networks.
12. Colonial Influence: The presence of European colonial powers in East Africa, such as the British in Zanzibar, played a significant role in expanding the slave trade

These factors collectively contributed to the growth and intensification of the slave trade in East Africa during the 19th century.

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