" Finally, it was amazing to understand how the process of agriculture really formulated African societies -- not only in the process or urbanization but also in the way their societies were structured (Bentley, pp. 43-44). This certainly helps one understand the commonality of emerging civilizations, as well as changes the view that civilization was centered in the Mediterranean Region. Chapter Two is similar to the other chapters in the book because the authors do far more than list facts, figures, and dates. Instead, they look at the overall view of what makes a society unique, and help us understand...

It seems that trade and migration are certainly driving forces in the development of civilization; and the authors compare and contrast the different ways this impacted each of the early societies. It was the surprising amount of sophistication and advancement of the Sub-Saharan African cultures, though, that was particularly intriguing and enjoyable.
REFERENCE

Bentley, J., et.al. Traditions and Encounters -- a Brief Global History. New York:

McGraw Hill, 2010, Electronic.