| Date | November 2016 | Marks available | 20 | Reference code | 16N.3op2a.HL.TZ0.2 |
| Level | Higher level only | Paper | Paper 3 (Aspects of the history of Africa) - last exams 2016 | Time zone | TZ0 |
| Command term | Discuss | Question number | 2 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Discuss the social and economic organization of the Ndebele under Lobengula.
Markscheme
Candidates are required to focus their discussion on social and economic organization of the Ndebele under Lobengula. They will offer a considered and balanced review of both factors with opinions and conclusions being presented clearly and supported with appropriate evidence.
Indicative content
Social organization
- Candidates may examine the traditional systems of society and religion, which enhanced unity among the Ndebele.
- Candidates may discuss how Christianity was spread in Ndebeleland. Lobengula did not himself have time for missionaries but he allowed Moffat and the Matabele mission into his territory.
- The Ndebele state was rigidly controlled through rules of service and hierarchy.
- Candidates may discuss the importance of marriage alliances, which also served an economic and political purpose.
Economic organization
- Candidates may mention that the Ndebele had subjects that were treated harshly. Their properties were controlled by Lobengula, increasing the wealth of his kingdom.
- It may also be mentioned that the subjects were expected to pay tribute in the form of cattle, grain, salt and iron tools.
- Candidates may also mention that cattle were central to the Ndebele economy and were the main source of its wealth.
- Mention could be made of the importance of agriculture, especially grains and vegetables, not just for consumption but also for trade purposes.
- Matabeleland was rich in resources. This led to Lobengula signing various concessions that eventually lost him his kingdom. These deals included the Rudd Concession, where he conceded digging rights in return for wealth and arms.
The above material is an indication of what candidates may elect to write about in their responses. However, the list is not exhaustive and no set answer is required.
Examiners and moderators are reminded of the need to apply the markbands that provide the “best fit” to the responses given by candidates and to award credit wherever it is possible to do so.
[20 marks]
