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500 BCE
Evidence of iron smelting in Nigeria and central Niger
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Period: 300 to 1200
The Reign of Ghana
Ghana first began around 830AD and became rich by trading its vast amounts of resources such as salt and gold with other kingdoms. -
800
Islam begins to spread through Africa
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Period: 970 to 1054
The Kingdom of Ghana is forced into the Awdaghast Desert.
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1000
Iron technology spreads to the rest of Africa
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1150
Wood Headrest
Wood headrest with curved rectangular top with projecting tab at each end, incised circular motif and a rectangular support which stands on a flat rectangular base -
1155
Gold Coin
Gold coin in square cardstock envelope, thin, circular with double square (or lozenge according to the orientation established by the hole at either side) and Arabic script, pearled border. Almohad Dynasty, Fez mint -
Period: 1200 to 1500
Mali's Reign
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1250
Ring
Cast copper alloy U form ring with ends that flare into balloon forms that meet in the middle, each with a flat triangular spike that is riveted together. Ring has an overall delicate incised linear pattern and heavy green, possibly archaeological patina -
1350
Processional cross
Cast copper alloy cross with a central four-cross openwork design encircled by openwork triangular patterns. A hollow tubular shaft would have fit over the end of a pole to be carried aloft during religious processionals -
1400
Equestrian figure
Equestrian figure with a quiver slung across the back diagonally from the right shoulder down -
Jan 31, 1400
Ingots
Small copper ingot currency or Croissettes of the HX type. This group of 5 ingots shows stable oxidation with some minor pitting. Mold form ridges are visible on the underside. -
Period: 1464 to
Songhai, the Last of These Three Great Empires' reign