The history of Africa is long and complex, dating back to the emergence of hominids in East Africa around 7 million years ago. Over time, these hominids evolved into Homo sapiens, the species to which modern humans belong.
The earliest known civilizations in Africa arose in the Nile Valley, where the ancient Egyptians and Nubians built powerful kingdoms and empires. These civilizations were highly advanced, with sophisticated systems of government, religion, and art.
In the 7th century AD, Islam spread to North Africa, and the region became part of the Islamic world. This led to a period of great cultural and economic exchange between Africa and the Middle East.