1) Economic Orientation: Southern African states were more oriented towards pastoralism and agriculture, with a focus on raising cattle and other livestock. In contrast, states in northern Africa were more likely to engage in trade and commerce, taking advantage of their proximity to the Mediterranean Sea and the Sahara desert trade routes.
2) Political Structures: Southern African states tended to have more centralized political systems, with strong leaders who held considerable power and authority. Northern African states, on the other hand, often had decentralized political systems, with power shared among various groups and factions.
3) Social Organization: Southern African societies were often more egalitarian, with less pronounced social hierarchies and a greater degree of social mobility. In northern Africa, social structures were more stratified, with clear distinctions between different classes and groups.
4) Religious Practices: Southern African states were more likely to practice indigenous religious traditions and beliefs. Northern African states, on the other hand, were more heavily influenced by Islam, which became the dominant religion in the region.
5) Interaction with European Powers: Southern Africa experienced significant European colonization and settlement during the colonial period, leading to the establishment of European colonies such as South Africa and Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). In northern Africa, European influence was more limited, with the region largely under the control of the Ottoman Empire until the early 20th century.
