Some Maasai adopting cultivation or trade indicated what change?

Correct answer: Pressure on pastoralism and diversification of livelihood

The direct answer is A: pressure on pastoralism and diversification of livelihood. Pastoralism means depending mainly on animals, pasture and seasonal movement. When colonial land policies reduced grazing areas, movement routes and access to water, keeping herds became more difficult. Drought, livestock loss and restrictions could also weaken income. Therefore, some Maasai began cultivation or trade so that they could obtain food or earnings from more than one source. This does not mean that cattle suddenly became unimportant; it shows adjustment to difficult conditions. Option A is correct because it connects the new activities with pressure and livelihood diversification. Option B is wrong because cattle remained central to Maasai life and identity. Option C is wrong because pastures were not all returned; access was often reduced. Option D is irrelevant because Maasai livelihood change was not about creating a sea empire. The key exam idea is: when one traditional livelihood becomes insecure, people may add other occupations. Memory cue: new work plus old work means diversification, not the complete end of the old work.