-
100
Camels introduced for trade in the Sahara
Camels were well-adapted to the desert climate, allowing trade to flourish over longer distances. -
300
Origins of the Kingdom of Ghana
Ghana was influential as the first large kingdom in Africa, succeeding greatly in trade and flourishing due to its takes on gold exports. -
Period: 600 to 700
Islam spreads across North Africa
Islam affected the lives of people all across Africa, even to this day. -
1000
Ghana at the height of its power
Ghana was not only extremely powerful, but lasted for a while, and would be the first of multiple powerful African kingdoms. -
1100
Almoravid movement in the Sahara
The Almoravids helped spread the Islamic religion across Africa. -
1200
Rise of the empire of Mali
Mali was another extremely powerful empire in Africa, also succeeding from trade and its gold supply. -
1260
Death of Sundiata; earliest stone buildings, Lalibela rules, Yoruba culture flourishes
These all marked turning points in their respective societies, all for the better. -
1300
Mali its height, Kanem as a rival
Mali was extremely powerful during this time, but not free of troubles. -
1324
Pilgrimage of Mansa Musa
Mansa Musa was a very powerful leader of Mali, and his pilgrimage was unlike any other, with hundreds of camels and thousands of slaves in his lavish caravan. -
1400
Timbuktu and Jenne flourish, Ethiopian Christian kingdom, Swahili cities also flourish
Cities around Africa advance culturally, religiously, educationally and economically during this time. -
1417
Last Chinese trade voyages to east Africa (1417 and 1431)
This marked the end of something great, China was a very influential trading partner for Africa, Asia and Europe. -
1500
Songhay empire flourishes, Benin at its height
The Songhai empire was one of the most powerful West African civilizations.