2023 WAEC HISTORY QUESTION AND ANSWERS

THEORY QUESTIONS


OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS




THEORY ANSWERS
NOTE: You are to answer ONLY FOUR questions. At least ONE quest from each section.
SECTION A (1-3)
SECTION B (4-6)
SECTION C (7-9)

(1a)
(PICK ANY THREE)
(i) Pottery shards
(ii) Stone tools
(iii) Ancient coins
(iv) Bone fragments
(v) Metal artifacts
(vi) Ceramic figurines
(vii) Clay tablets with inscriptions
(viii) Burial goods
(ix) Accumulations of discarded shellfish remains

(1b)
(PICK ANY FOUR)
(i) Site Destruction: Archaeological sites can be easily damaged or destroyed by natural processes, construction projects, looting, or even unintentional human activities. Once a site is destroyed, valuable historical and cultural information is lost forever.

(ii) Limited Resources: Archaeological research often requires substantial funding and resources. Limited financial support can hinder excavations, laboratory analysis, preservation efforts, and publication of findings, leading to incomplete or delayed research.

(iii) Ethical Dilemmas: Archaeologists face ethical challenges concerning the excavation and handling of human remains, sacred artifacts, and culturally sensitive materials. Balancing the pursuit of knowledge with respect for indigenous rights and cultural heritage can be complex and controversial.

(iv) Fragmentary Evidence: Archaeologists primarily work with fragments of the past, such as broken pottery, decayed organic materials, or incomplete structures. Reconstructing ancient societies from these fragments requires skill, interpretation, and a deep understanding of the context.

(v) Interpretive Bias: Archaeological interpretation is influenced by the cultural backgrounds, assumptions, and preconceptions of the researchers. This can introduce bias into the analysis, potentially distorting the understanding of past societies and their behaviors.

(vi) Limited Accessibility: Many archaeological sites are located in remote or politically unstable regions, making them difficult to access. This limits the ability of researchers to study and document these sites fully, resulting in gaps in our understanding of human history.

(vii) Repatriation and Cultural Heritage: The ownership and repatriation of cultural artifacts can be a contentious issue. Disputes arise when artifacts have been removed from their countries of origin and are now held in museums or private collections in other countries. Finding a balance between preservation and the rights of communities to their cultural heritage is an ongoing challenge.

(viii) Public Engagement and Awareness: Archaeology often struggles to engage and communicate with the wider public effectively. Limited public awareness and understanding of archaeological methods and discoveries can hinder support for research funding, preservation efforts, and the protection of archaeological sites.
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(2)
(PICK ANY FIVE)
(i) Autonomous Regional Governance: Non-centralized states in Nigeria often have autonomous regional governance structures. These regions have a level of self-governance and decision-making power, allowing them to manage their affairs to some extent.

(ii) Greater Resource Control: Non-centralized states have greater control over the resources within their boundaries. This includes natural resources such as oil, minerals, and agricultural products. They can negotiate and manage the exploitation of these resources and retain a larger share of the revenue generated.

(iii) Revenue Allocation: Non-centralized states have the authority to allocate and manage their own revenue. They can collect taxes, fees, and levies, and have the power to determine how these funds are spent within their jurisdiction.

(iv) Local Legislation: Non-centralized states can enact and enforce laws specific to their region. They have legislative bodies, such as state assemblies, which can pass laws and regulations that are applicable within their boundaries, as long as they do not conflict with federal laws.

(v) Independent Judiciary: Non-centralized states have their own judicial systems, with independent courts that can adjudicate legal matters within their jurisdiction. They can interpret and apply both state and federal laws within the scope of their authority.

(vi) Education Policies: Non-centralized states have the power to shape and implement their own education policies. They can establish educational institutions, develop curriculum guidelines, and make decisions regarding educational standards and practices.

(vii) Health Service Provision: Non-centralized states are responsible for the provision of healthcare services within their jurisdictions. They can establish and manage healthcare facilities, implement health policies, and regulate the healthcare sector to meet the specific needs of their population.

(viii) Infrastructure Development: Non-centralized states have the authority to plan, fund, and implement infrastructure projects within their boundaries. This includes the construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, power plants, water supply systems, and other essential infrastructure.

(ix) Cultural Preservation: Non-centralized states have the ability to promote and preserve their unique cultural heritage. They can develop cultural policies, support cultural institutions, and safeguard traditional practices, languages, and customs specific to their region.

(x) Local Economic Development: Non-centralized states can pursue economic development strategies tailored to their region’s needs and potentials. They can attract investments, promote local industries, and implement policies that stimulate economic growth and job creation within their jurisdiction.
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(3)
(PICK ANY FIVE)
(i) Competition for Power: The struggle for power and dominance among the various Hausa states led to disunity. Each state sought to assert its authority and expand its territory, often resulting in conflicts and rivalries.

(ii) Ethnic and Religious Differences: The Hausa states were not culturally homogenous. There were variations in ethnic identities, languages, and religious affiliations, with some states being predominantly Muslim and others adhering to traditional African religions. These differences sometimes created tensions and divisions among the states.

(iii) Dynastic Rivalries: The Hausa states had different ruling dynasties, and the competition for power among these dynasties often led to internal conflicts and disunity. Succession disputes and power struggles within ruling families weakened their collective strength.

(iv) Economic Competition: Trade routes, particularly the trans-Saharan trade, were crucial for the prosperity of the Hausa states. Competition over control of trade routes, access to resources, and economic dominance led to conflicts and divisions among the states.

(v) External Invasions: The Hausa states faced invasions from external forces such as the Fulani jihads led by Islamic scholars and warriors. These invasions disrupted the existing power structures and brought about significant changes in the region, leading to disunity among the Hausa states.

(vi) Territorial Disputes: Disputes over territorial boundaries, control of strategic locations, and resources were common among the Hausa states. These disputes often led to armed conflicts and weakened their collective ability to defend against external threats.

(vii) Influence of Foreign Powers: The influence of external powers, particularly European colonial powers, played a role in exacerbating disunity among the Hausa states. European powers sought to exploit divisions and establish control over the region, leading to fragmentation and conflicts among the states.

(viii) Lack of Centralized Authority: Unlike some other African empires of the time, the Hausa states lacked a centralized authority that could effectively coordinate their actions and maintain unity. Each state had its own ruler and administrative structure, which made it challenging to forge a cohesive and unified front.
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(4a)
(PICK ANY THREE)
(i) Latoosa
(ii) Ogunmola
(iii) Oluyole
(iv) Kurunmi
(v) Akitoye
(vi) Afonja
(vii) Alimi
(viii) Kosoko

(4b)
(PICK ANY FOUR)
(i) Unification: The Yoruba civil wars played a crucial role in unifying the Yoruba people. The conflicts brought various Yoruba subgroups and kingdoms together, creating a sense of shared identity and common purpose.

(ii) Rise of New Leaders: The Yoruba civil wars saw the emergence of new leaders who played pivotal roles in shaping the future of the region. Notable figures such as Samuel Ajayi Crowther, who later became the first African Anglican bishop, gained prominence during this period.

(iii) Colonial Influence: The wars occurred during the height of European colonial influence in Africa. The conflicts provided an opportunity for the British to assert their control over the Yoruba region and establish indirect rule, marking a significant step toward British colonial dominance in Nigeria.

(iv) Legacy of Political Structure: The Yoruba civil wars resulted in the creation of a centralized political structure among the Yoruba people. This structure, based on the Oyo Empire’s model, had a lasting impact on the subsequent political organization of the Yoruba people and influenced the development of modern Nigeria’s political structure.

(v) Cultural Preservation: The Yoruba civil wars led to increased efforts to preserve Yoruba culture and traditions. As the conflicts threatened the Yoruba way of life, there was a resurgence of cultural identity and a renewed commitment to preserving Yoruba customs, language, and religion.

(vi) Resistance against Slavery: The Yoruba civil wars were also characterized by a strong resistance against the Atlantic slave trade. The conflicts saw alliances formed between various Yoruba kingdoms to combat the slave trade, contributing to the eventual decline of the transatlantic slave trade in the region.

(vii) Transition to Modern Warfare: The Yoruba civil wars witnessed the introduction of new military technologies and tactics. The conflicts marked a transition from traditional warfare methods to more modern forms of combat, including the use of firearms, which had a profound impact on subsequent conflicts in Nigeria.

(viii) Historical Consciousness: The Yoruba civil wars have become an important part of Nigeria’s historical consciousness. The conflicts are often studied and commemorated as a critical period in Yoruba and Nigerian history, serving as a reminder of the region’s resilience, cultural heritage, and struggles for independence and self-determination.
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(5)
(PICK ANY FIVE)
(i) The Royal Court: The Royal Court was the central governing body in Dahomey. It consisted of the King (also known as the Oba), his advisors, and various officials. The court made important political decisions, enacted laws, and managed the administration of the kingdom.

(ii) Eghaevho N’Ahòn: Eghaevho N’Ahòn was the title given to the chiefs of the different districts in Dahomey. They acted as local administrators and represented the interests of their respective communities. They were responsible for collecting taxes, maintaining order, and executing the policies of the king.

(iii) Council of State: The Council of State was an advisory body that assisted the Oba in making important decisions. It consisted of high-ranking officials, including the Eghaevho N’Ahòn and other appointed individuals. The council provided guidance on matters of governance, military strategies, and diplomacy.

(iv) Amazons: The Amazons, also known as the Mino, were a renowned all-female military regiment in Dahomey. They were highly skilled warriors who played a significant role in the kingdom’s defense and expansion. The Amazons were also involved in ceremonial duties and acted as a symbol of the king’s power.

(v) Guilds and Trade Associations: Various guilds and trade associations existed in Dahomey, representing different professions and economic activities. These organizations included blacksmiths, weavers, farmers, hunters, and traders. They promoted the interests of their members, regulated trade practices, and facilitated economic growth.

(vi) Secret Societies: Secret societies were prevalent in Dahomey and played important social and political roles. These societies, such as Egungun and Ekpe, had initiation rituals, maintained specific codes of conduct, and served as guardians of cultural and spiritual traditions. They also had influence in decision-making processes within the kingdom.

(vii) Oyo Mesi: Oyo Mesi was a powerful council of elders and high-ranking officials in Dahomey. They were responsible for overseeing the king’s actions, ensuring that he ruled in accordance with established customs and traditions. Oyo Mesi had the authority to check the power of the king and act as a balance of power in the kingdom.

(viii) Court Officials: The royal court had various officials who held important administrative roles. These officials included the Iyase (the prime minister), the Eunuchs (trusted servants of the king), the Palace Guards (responsible for the security of the king and the palace), and the Oba’s wives and concubines, who had influence and participated in court affairs.

(ix) Ekine Society: The Ekine Society was a secret society that served as a social, religious, and political organization. Its members were men who had attained a certain level of success in society and were initiated into the society upon meeting certain criteria. The Ekine Society was known for its use of drums, dances, and other forms of cultural expression.

(x) Iwebo: Iwebo was a society of women who played important roles in the governance of the kingdom. They performed various functions, including the collection of taxes, the maintenance of roads and other infrastructure, and the provision of social services. Iwebo also had a role in resolving disputes and promoting peace within the kingdom.

(xi) Age Grade System: The Age Grade System was a socio-political organization that grouped individuals according to their age and provided a framework for social, economic, and political activities. Each age grade had specific roles and responsibilities, and individuals moved through the age grades as they matured. The age grade system served as a means of socializing young people into the norms and values of the kingdom and provided a platform for political participation.
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(6)
(PICK ANY FIVE)
(i) Advocacy against slavery: Christian missionaries actively spoke out against the institution of slavery, condemning its immorality and advocating for its abolition. They preached about the equality and dignity of all human beings, emphasizing the inherent worth of slaves.

(ii) Education and enlightenment: Missionaries established schools and educational institutions in Nigeria, providing slaves and freed individuals with opportunities for education. By imparting knowledge and critical thinking skills, they empowered individuals to question the legitimacy of slavery and understand their rights.

(iii) Conversion of slave owners: Through their religious teachings, missionaries sought to convert slave owners to Christianity, hoping to instill in them a sense of compassion, empathy, and respect for human life. This conversion often challenged the notion of slave ownership and promoted a more humane treatment of slaves.

(iv) Liberation of slaves: Missionaries actively participated in the liberation of slaves. They bought slaves from their owners, negotiated for their freedom, and provided shelter and support for freed individuals. In some cases, missionaries facilitated the establishment of self-sustaining communities for freed slaves.

(v) Promotion of indigenous leadership: Missionaries trained and educated indigenous leaders to take charge of their communities. By empowering local leaders, missionaries ensured the sustainability of their efforts against slavery and promoted self-governance among the people.

(vi) Documentation and reporting: Christian missionaries documented the horrors of the slave trade, including firsthand accounts of its brutality. They sent reports to their home countries, raising awareness and generating public support for the abolitionist movement.

(vii) Collaboration with abolitionist societies: Missionaries collaborated with abolitionist societies and organizations in Europe and the United States. They shared information, coordinated efforts, and leveraged international pressure to bring an end to the trans-Atlantic slave trade.

(viii) Cultural transformation: Through their teachings, missionaries fostered a cultural transformation that challenged the social acceptance of slavery. They emphasized the principles of equality, justice, and compassion, which gradually shifted societal attitudes and contributed to the eventual eradication of the slave trade.
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(7)
(PICK ANY FIVE)
(i) Preservation of Local Customs and Traditions: Indirect Rule allowed the British administrators to govern through existing indigenous institutions and rulers. This approach aimed to maintain local customs, traditions, and social structures, providing a sense of continuity for the Nigerian people.

(ii) Minimal Disruption of Local Governance: By employing traditional rulers and chiefs as intermediaries, the British authorities minimized disruptions to local governance structures. This approach helped to maintain stability and avoid significant upheavals that might have occurred with a more direct form of colonial rule.

(iii) Efficient Administrative System: The Indirect Rule system utilized existing native administrative structures, such as traditional councils and courts, to enforce British policies and laws. This approach was seen as efficient since it utilized local resources and knowledge, reducing the burden on the colonial administration.

(iv) Economic Development: The British authorities often relied on local elites to collect taxes and administer economic policies. This approach allowed the indigenous rulers and chiefs to retain some control over economic affairs and provided opportunities for them to participate in the colonial economy.

(v) Access to Education and Western Knowledge: Indirect Rule brought Western education to some parts of Nigeria through the establishment of schools by the colonial authorities. This provided some Nigerians with access to formal education, which could lead to improved opportunities in the colonial administration or other sectors.

(vi) Infrastructure Development: Under Indirect Rule, the British colonial administration invested in infrastructure projects like road construction, telecommunication networks, and health facilities in certain areas. This led to improved access to services and increased connectivity within the region.

(vii) Exposure to Modern Systems of Governance: The presence of British administrators and their interaction with traditional rulers exposed the Nigerians to modern systems of governance, legal frameworks, and bureaucratic structures. This exposure opened up avenues for some Nigerians to gain knowledge and experience that would later influence their involvement in post-colonial governance.

(viii) Recognition of Indigenous Authorities: Indirect Rule conferred authority and recognition on indigenous rulers and chiefs, which helped to maintain their prestige and status within their communities. This recognition provided some level of stability and continuity in local leadership, which was seen as advantageous by those who benefited from this arrangement.
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(8)
(PICK ANY FIVE)
(i) Socioeconomic Stability: Peaceful coexistence fosters stability, which is crucial for economic growth and development. When diverse groups peacefully coexist, it creates an environment conducive to investment, business expansion, and job creation.

(ii) Cultural Diversity: Nigeria is known for its rich cultural diversity, with over 250 ethnic groups. Peaceful coexistence allows for the preservation and celebration of this diversity, leading to cultural exchange, appreciation, and the growth of arts, music, literature, and cuisine.

(iii) National Unity: Peaceful coexistence strengthens national unity and social cohesion. It encourages Nigerians to embrace their shared identity as Nigerians, promoting a sense of belonging and patriotism.

(iv) Political Stability: Peaceful coexistence plays a crucial role in maintaining political stability. When various ethnic, religious, and social groups coexist peacefully, it reduces the likelihood of conflicts and tensions that can undermine political stability.

(v) Conflict Resolution: Peaceful coexistence has fostered the development of mechanisms for conflict resolution. It encourages dialogue, negotiation, and compromise, allowing disputes and disagreements to be resolved peacefully rather than escalating into violence.

(vi) Social Progress: Peaceful coexistence paves the way for social progress. It promotes inclusivity, equal rights, and equal opportunities for all citizens, regardless of their ethnic, religious, or social backgrounds. This creates a more just and equitable society.

(vii) Interfaith Dialogue: Nigeria is a religiously diverse country, with a significant population of both Christians and Muslims. Peaceful coexistence allows for interfaith dialogue, fostering understanding, respect, and cooperation among different religious communities.

(viii) International Reputation: Peaceful coexistence enhances Nigeria’s international reputation. It presents the country as a stable and attractive destination for foreign investment, tourism, and international collaborations. It also strengthens Nigeria’s role as a regional leader in promoting peace and stability in Africa.
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(9)
(PICK ANY FIVE)
(i) Pan-Africanism: Nigeria’s motivation to join the Organization of African Unity (OAU) stemmed from its commitment to the ideals of Pan-Africanism, which aimed to promote unity, solidarity, and cooperation among African nations.

(ii) Decolonization and Independence: Nigeria, like many other African countries, gained its independence from colonial rule in the 1960s. Joining the OAU provided a platform for Nigeria to establish itself as a sovereign nation and participate in the collective efforts to address the challenges of post-colonial Africa.

(iii) African Solidarity: Nigeria recognized the importance of fostering solidarity among African nations to address common issues and challenges, such as socio-economic development, regional security, and political stability. Membership in the OAU allowed Nigeria to collaborate with other African countries in pursuing shared goals.

(iv) Anti-Apartheid Struggle: Nigeria was a staunch opponent of apartheid in South Africa and actively supported the liberation movements fighting against racial discrimination and oppression. By joining the OAU, Nigeria could contribute to the collective efforts of African nations in combating apartheid and supporting the freedom struggle.

(v) Regional Security: Nigeria recognized the need for collective security arrangements in Africa. As a member of the OAU, Nigeria could participate in discussions and initiatives aimed at promoting peace, stability, and conflict resolution in different regions of the continent.

(vi) Economic Cooperation: Nigeria sought to enhance economic cooperation with other African nations to foster trade, investment, and regional integration. Being a member of the OAU allowed Nigeria to engage in discussions on economic development, policy coordination, and regional trade agreements that would benefit the country and the continent as a whole.

(vii) African Identity and Culture: Nigeria, as a country with a rich cultural heritage, valued the preservation and promotion of African identity and culture. The OAU provided a platform for Nigeria to collaborate with other African countries in safeguarding and promoting African history, arts, and traditions.

(viii) Collective Diplomacy: By joining the OAU, Nigeria could participate in collective diplomatic efforts on behalf of Africa. This included representing African interests on the global stage, engaging in negotiations with other regional blocs, and advocating for African concerns in international forums.

(ix) Regional Integration: Nigeria recognized the importance of regional integration for economic development and political stability in Africa. Through its OAU membership, Nigeria could contribute to the development of regional institutions and initiatives aimed at fostering integration, such as the African Union (AU).

(x) African Development Agenda: Nigeria was committed to supporting the African development agenda, as articulated by the OAU and later the AU. By being a member of the OAU, Nigeria could actively engage in discussions and initiatives related to issues such as poverty alleviation, healthcare, education, infrastructure development, and the promotion of good governance in Africa.

OBJECTIVE ANSWERS
HISTORY OBJ
1-10: DCABABCABD
11-20: BADACDBDCA
21-30: CDBACBDABC
31-40: BBCABDABCD
41-50: ACDBACDBAB

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