The Trading Kingdoms of West AfricaU.S. History

In the 1400’s… As native American cultures were

developing in North America…. And Europeans were experiencing the

Renaissance…. Major kingdoms developed in Western

Africa.

Africa/ West Africa

Importance of Trade Trade allows these

kingdoms to flourish. Use of camel,

instead of horse, allowed travel across the Sahara desert.

Salt, ivory, and gold were traded for various goods from Europe and Asia.

Trade Routes of Western Africa

Kingdoms of West Africa

Ghana Lasted from 300-

1500 A.D. (most powerful around 800 A.D.)

Known as the “Land of Gold”…supplied gold to much of the Mediterranean region.

Mali 1200-1500 A.D. Over time, took over

the Kingdom of Ghana Mansa Musa was a

powerful king who expanded the borders of Mali to include new trade routes.

Adopted and spread Islam.

Mansa Musa

Timbuktu Timbuktu was a

famous city in Mali Salt trade Known for

religious and cultural influence

Libraries, universities, arts

Songhai Songhai conquered

Mali around 1468. Centered around the

Niger river. Timbuktu grew

stronger as a center of Islam and learning.

Eventually fell because it became too large to control.

Slavery in Africa Slavery was common in Africa and

humans were used as items of trade. African rulers sold slaves to Arab traders Who were slaves?

People captured in war Criminals Other undesirable people

Was not as harsh as European slavery that came later.