Africa Empire

By Cindy Martinez
  • 300

    Ghana Empire

    The ruler's of Ghana built an empire by controlling the salt and gold trade. They also had this trade name that is called Silent barter this is a process in which people exchange goods without each other directly.
  • 300

    Ghana Empire

    They lived in small groups and farmed the land along the Niger River. After AD 300, the Soninke began to band together for protection against nomadic herders who wanted to move into the area.
  • Jan 1, 800

    Ghana Empire

    Ghana Empire
    Ghana was firmly in control of West Africa's trade routes. Nearly all trade between northern and southern Africa passed through Ghana. Ghana's army kept the trade routes safe. Trade increased, and so did Ghana's wealth.
  • Jan 1, 1230

    Mali Empire

    Mali Empire
    Mali's location on the Niger also allowed its people to control trade on the river. As a result. the empire grew rich and powerful.
  • Jan 1, 1230

    Mali Empire

    Under the ruler Sundiata he built up an army and won back his country;s independence. He then conqueres nerby kingdoms, including Ghana. After he conquered Ghana he took over the salt and gold trades.
  • Jan 1, 1300

    Mali Empire

    The most famous ruler of Mali was a Muslim named Mansa Musa. Under his skillful leadership, Mali reached the height of its wealth, power, and fame in the 1300s.
  • Jan 1, 1300

    Songhai Empire

    Even as the Empire of Mali was reaching its height, and rival power was growing in the are. That rival was the Songhai kingdom. From their capital at Gao, the Songhai participated in the same trade that had Ghana and Mali so rich.
  • Jan 1, 1400

    Songhai Empire

    Songhai Empire
    The people of Songhai rebelled and regained their freedom. The Songhai leaders were Muslims. So too were many of the North African Berbers who traded in West Africa. Because of this shared religion, the Berbers were willing to trade with Songhai, who grew richer.
  • Jan 1, 1464

    Songhai Empire

    As the Songhai gained in wealth, they expanded their territory and built an empire. Songhai's expansion was led by Sunni Ali who became ruler of the Songhai. Before he took over, the Songhai state had been disorganized.