Chapter 20: Central Africa  "Congo River"

Introduction Throughout history rivers have served as important sources of water, resources, transportation, and power. The Congo River, which winds through the Democratic Republic of the Congo, serves all these purposes. Its waters have been essential to the development of settlements in this part of Africa. Destination Title: Congo Note: Clicking on the link above will launch a new browser window. Need help using your browser for this activity? Click here for tips. Directions Start at the BBC's Congo Web site. Click on the small white box under the heading "Congo general info." Read the information, and then close the window. On the map of the Congo Basin, trace the river to its starting point, and click on this link. Read the information in the window that opens. Explore the other links along the course of the Congo River. Use what you have learned to answer the following questions. 1.How far is it from the source of the Congo to the Atlantic Ocean? How long does it take water to travel from the source to the ocean? 2.Why are the cataracts along the Congo River both a help and hindrance? 3.List three facts you learned about the source of the Congo River. 4.Select one other feature on the map, and explain how it is related to the Congo River. 5.Write an essay explaining the importance of the Congo River to Central Africa. Be sure to include facts that support your essay.