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Jan 1, 800
Ghana controls Trade
Ghana is between the vast Sahara to the north and deep forests that spread out to the south. This was a good location for trade. Traders would trade gold and salt using a process called silent barter. As trade in gold and salt, Ghana's rulers gained power. Soon Ghana gained all control of trade from the North African merchants -
Jan 1, 800
Ghana Builds an Empire
By 800 Ghana was completely in control of all of West Africa's trade routes and Ghana's wealth increased. The rulers of Ghana forced every trader who entered or exited Ghana to pay a tax. With all the wealth Ghana had, they were able to build a very powerful army who conquered many neighboring areas. -
Jan 1, 800
The fall of Ghana's empire
A group of North African Muslims attacked Ghana in the 1060s called the Almoravids. Ghana was defeated by the Almoravids after 14 years of fighting. This group of invaders weakened the empire by cutting off trade routes that Ghana needed to support its empire. The Almoravid's animals also caused disturbance in the farms so many farmers left to find new homes. Also, neighboring areas that Ghana conquered started rebellion and the empire fell apart. -
Jan 1, 1255
Who was Sundiata?
Sundiata was a ruler of Mali who built and army and won back his country's independence from a harsh ruler. He conquered nearby kingdoms including Ghana. Along with conquering Ghana, Sundiata was in control of the salt and gold trades. Sundiata worked to improve agriculture in Mali and took away power from local leaders, or "mansas". He died later in 1255. -
Jan 1, 1300
Who was Mansa Musa ?
Mansa Musa was Mali's most famous ruler. Under his rule, Mali reached the height of its wealth, power, and fame. Also, Mansa Musa helped spread Islam throughout West Africa. He ruled for about 25 years adding new trade cities in the empire during his time. -
Jan 1, 1400
The rise of Songhai
The leaders of Songhai and the North African Berbers who traded in West Africa were all Muslims. This shared religion benefited the wealth of Songhai. As Songhai grew richer, they expanded their territory and built an empire. -
Jan 1, 1431
The fall of Mali
When Mansa Musa died, His son Maghan took over the throne but he was not a strong and efficient ruler like his father. Maghan could not uprotect Mali from raiders from the Southeast. These raiders destroyed schools and mosques. By 1500, nearly all the lands Mali ruled were lost and only a small part remained. -
Jan 1, 1464
Sunni Ali
While Songhai expanded their empire under the rule of Sunni Ali. Before his rule the empire was disorganized and poorly run. Sunni Ali worked to unify, strengthen and enlarge his empire. He was a Muslim but participated in local religions as well. Sunni Ali brought stability to Songhai. -
Songhai falls to Morocco
Morocco wanted to gain control of Songhai's salt mines. The morocco army set out for the heart of Songhai in 1591. The weapons Songhai's army used was no match for the advanced weapons Morocco's army had. Change in trade also harmed Songhai's empire. In the end, Songhai fell to Morocco.
