What did the people living in great Zimbabwe do for a living?

The inhabitants of Great Zimbabwe were primarily engaged in agriculture, livestock herding, and trade. They practiced a mixed farming system, cultivating crops such as sorghum, millet, maize, and beans, and raising cattle, goats, and sheep. The fertile soils and abundant water resources in the area allowed for successful agricultural production.

Great Zimbabwe was also a significant trading center. The city was strategically located along major trade routes connecting the interior of Africa with the coastal regions. The inhabitants traded gold, ivory, and other valuable commodities with Arab and Portuguese merchants for various goods, including cloth, beads, and metal tools.

In addition to agriculture and trade, the people of Great Zimbabwe were skilled in various crafts, such as pottery, weaving, and metalworking. They produced intricate pottery vessels and decorated them with geometric designs. They also wove textiles and crafted iron tools and weapons.

Overall, the economy of Great Zimbabwe was diverse, with a combination of agricultural production, livestock herding, trade, and artisanal activities. This economic diversity contributed to the city's prosperity and influence in the region during its peak period.