Ancient Ghana Timeline

  • 300

    Ghana established!

    Around A.D. 300, the Soninke people found Ghana using their superior weapons.
  • Period: 300 to Dec 31, 1235

    Ghana's Timeline

  • Jan 1, 700

    Written Records

    Merchants from North Africa become more and more common. They start leaving behind written records of West Africa and its people. Previously, West Africa has only archaeology and Oral History.
  • Jan 1, 1050

    Almoravids' invasion

    The Almoravids declare a holy war against all non-Muslims in A.D. 1050. This includes Ghana, as it's people still practices their traditional religion.
  • Jan 1, 1076

    Almoravids come to Ghana

    An Almoravid army invades Ghana in A.D. 1076 and captures Ghana's capital, Kumbi Saleh.
  • Jan 1, 1203

    Sumanguru's reign

    Sumanguru takes over what's left of Ghana in A.D. 1203. Legends say he was a cruel ruler that taxed his subjects harshly and stole their gold.
  • Jan 1, 1235

    End of Ghana

    Sundiata of the Malinke tribes faces Sumanguru of Ghana in a breathtaking battle, and Sundiata's forces win. Sundiata defeats Sumanguru and becomes the first ruler of the newly-established Mali Empire.