Concept:The British contact with the Sokoto Caliphate in the 19th century was mainly commercial and diplomatic rather than military.
Explanation:British interest in the Sokoto Caliphate grew through trade and imperial expansion.
The Royal Niger Company and British envoys negotiated agreements with Caliphate authorities for commercial access and peaceful dealings.
These treaties and trade agreements created a period of mutual interaction and cooperation between the two sides.
There was no sustained British military conquest of the Caliphate during the 19th century.
The major military confrontation and occupation of Sokoto took place in the early 20th century.
Therefore, the relationship at the time is best understood as treaty-driven and economic rather than hostile.
Answer:C. Based on treaties and trade agreements leading to mutual cooperation.