What was the importance of gender and age grades in sub-saharan african societies?

Women were responsible for child rearing, domestic chores and enjoyed high honor as the source of life while men monopolized public authority. Aristocratic women could influence public affair and women merchant commonly traded at markets. Sometimes women organized all female military unit. All this was possible for women because Islam did little to curtail women’s opportunities in sub-Suharan Africa. People assumed responsibilities and tasks appropriate to their age grades.Age formed tight circles of friends and,later allies. Hope that helped!❤️

The goods the europeans wanted the most were gold, jewels, silk, perfumes, and especially spices.