History - Junior Secondary 1 - Calabar

TERM: 3^RD TERM

WEEK: 11 and 12

CLASS: Junior Secondary School 1

AGE: 12 years

DURATION: 40 minutes

DATE:

SUBJECT: History

TOPIC:  Calabar

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES: At the end of the lesson, the learners should be able to

1. ) Locate the Calabar on the map
2. ) Discuss the origin of the Calabar people
3. ) Describe the socio-political structure of the Calabar people
4. ) State the economic activities of the Calabar people

INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Identification, explanation, questions and answers, demonstration, story-telling, videos from source

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: Basic History for Junior Secondary Schools 1 by Ijeoma E.O

INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURES:

WEEK 11

NOTE

CALABAR

Calabar is located in southeastern Nigeria, serving as the capital of Cross River State. Situated near the Calabar River and the Gulf of Guinea, it is a coastal city with access to both inland and international trade routes. Its strategic position has historically made it an important center for trade and cultural exchange.

Origin of the Calabar People
The Calabar people, primarily composed of the Efik, Efut, and Qua groups, trace their origins to migrations from the hinterlands of Nigeria. The Efik people, one of the largest groups, migrated from the Ibibio region and settled along the Calabar River. Historically, Calabar served as an influential trading post as early as the 17th century and became known for its involvement in trade with European merchants, especially during the transatlantic slave trade. Over time, the Calabar people developed a rich cultural heritage that combined indigenous practices with influences from international contact.

EVALUATION:

1. Identify the geographic location of Calabar in Nigeria. Why is its location significant in terms of trade and cultural exchange?
2. Describe the strategic importance of Calabar’s position near the Gulf of Guinea and the Calabar River. How did this influence its development as a trading center?
3. Who are the main ethnic groups in Calabar, and how did they come to settle in the region?
4. Discuss the influence of European contact on the culture and trade practices of the Calabar people. How did it impact the region historically?
5. Analyze the role of Calabar as a trading post during the 17th century. How did trade affect the development of the Calabar people’s society?

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher marks their books and commends them positively

WEEK 12

NOTE

CALABAR

Socio-Political Structure of the Calabar People
The Calabar people maintain a traditional socio-political structure that includes:

• Obong (King): The Obong of Calabar is the paramount traditional ruler and holds significant cultural and political influence, especially among the Efik people. The Obong oversees cultural rituals and acts as a unifying figure.
• Ekpe Society: The Ekpe, or Leopard Society, is a secret society that plays a vital role in governance, social regulation, and cultural preservation. The society is influential in both traditional and community affairs.
• Council of Chiefs: A council of chiefs advises the Obong and participates in administrative matters, helping maintain order and representing community interests.
• Age Grades: Similar to other Nigerian ethnic groups, the Calabar people have age-grade associations that contribute to community development, social order, and local decision-making.

Economic Activities of the Calabar People
The Calabar people engage in a variety of economic activities, including:

• Fishing: Due to their proximity to the coast and rivers, fishing is a significant economic activity for the Calabar people, providing both sustenance and trade.
• Agriculture: They cultivate crops such as yams, cassava, cocoyam, and palm oil, which are used locally and traded.
• Trade and Commerce: Calabar historically served as a trade hub, and trade remains important today. The Calabar seaport and marketplaces facilitate commerce with other Nigerian regions and even international partners.
• Craftsmanship: Skilled artisans produce crafts, textiles, and carvings, which contribute to local culture and tourism.
• Tourism: Calabar is known as a tourist destination, especially with events like the Calabar Carnival. The tourism sector supports local businesses, artisans, and service industries.

EVALUATION:   

1. Evaluate the role of fishing in the economy of Calabar. How does this activity support both trade and daily life?
2. Identify the main agricultural products cultivated by the Calabar people. How do these products contribute to their economy?
3. Describe the importance of trade and commerce in Calabar’s economic activities. How do the Calabar seaport and marketplaces benefit the local economy?
4. Explain the role of craftsmanship in Calabar’s economy. What crafts are produced, and how do they support local culture and tourism?
5. Analyze the impact of tourism on Calabar’s economy. How does the Calabar Carnival contribute to economic growth and cultural exchange

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher marks their books and commends them positively