Mapungubwe thrived from around AD 1220 to 1300 and served as a hub for political authority, commerce, and social structure. It was the first recognized state-level society in southern Africa. Archaeologists discovered indications of social stratification,

Mapungubwe flourished between AD 1220 and 1300, emerging as a center of political power, trade, and social organization. It holds the distinction of being the first known state-level society in southern Africa. Archaeological findings reveal evidence of social hierarchy, trade links, skilled goldsmithing, and political governance within this region.