How was King Afonso's rule undermined by the slave trade?

• A. By encouraging trade with European powers
• B. By weakening the loyalty of his kingdom
• C. By increasing agricultural productivity
• D. By promoting cultural exchanges

Answer: (B)

King Afonso's rule was undermined by the slave trade primarily because it weakened the loyalty within his kingdom. As the slave trade flourished, it led to the capture and sale of many individuals from his own kingdom, creating divisions among the people. This influx of external trade interests, particularly from Europeans involved in the slave trade, shifted focus away from loyalty to the king and his centralized authority. The traditional structure of loyalty was disrupted as local power brokers and traders began to engage in profitable slave trading, often prioritizing personal gain over allegiance to the monarchy. This resulted in social and political fragmentation, ultimately diminishing Afonso's control and influence over his territory.

The other choices, while involving trade and its impacts, do not directly address how the loyalty and unity of his kingdom were compromised due to the rise of the slave trade. Encouraging trade with European powers and promoting cultural exchanges did not inherently undermine his authority; rather, they could exist alongside a strong centralized rule. Similarly, increased agricultural productivity may have provided some benefits but did not directly relate to the loyalty issues and fragmentation caused by the slave trade.