Which statement best explains the importance of Arabic in Songhai? A. It was the traditional language of West Africa. B. It became the language of Songhai law and learning. C. It made it easier to conduct the gold-salt trade. D. It was more advanced than West African languages.

## Step 1<br />The problem is asking us to identify the most accurate statement that explains the importance of Arabic in Songhai. The options provided are:<br />A. It was the traditional language of West Africa.<br />B. It became the language of Songhai law and learning.<br />C. It made it easier to conduct the gold-salt trade.<br />D. It was more advanced than West African languages.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />We need to evaluate each option based on historical facts. <br /><br />## Step 3<br />Option A is incorrect because Arabic was not the traditional language of West Africa. <br /><br />## Step 4<br />Option B is correct. Arabic became the language of Songhai law and learning, which is a significant role of any language in a society.<br /><br />## Step 5<br />Option C is incorrect because Arabic did not make it easier to conduct the gold-salt trade. <br /><br />## Step 6<br />Option D is incorrect because Arabic was not more advanced than West African languages.