Ghana, Mali, and Songhai became large and powerful West African kingdoms primarily due to their strategic control of trans-Saharan trade routes, which facilitated the exchange of gold, salt, and other valuable goods. The wealth generated from trade allowed these empires to build strong militaries and centralized governments, fostering political stability and expansion. Additionally, the adoption of Islam played a significant role in enhancing trade relations with North Africa and promoting cultural exchanges. This combination of economic prosperity, military strength, and cultural development solidified their prominence in the region.
mali and songhai
Mali's empire helped songhai controll trade routes and it made songhai richer
Mali, Songhai, and Ghana gained their wealth from trading and controlling.
In the 1300s Songhai had become so rich and powerful to draw attention of the rulers of Mali. Then, they sent an army to conquer Songhai. Later, as the Empire of Mali became weaker, they rose up against them, and won their freedom.
In the 1300s Songhai had become so rich and powerful to draw attention of the rulers of Mali. Then, they sent an army to conquer Songhai. Later, as the Empire of Mali became weaker, they rose up against them, and won their freedom.
Songhai became a powerful empire because they controlled the river and trade with peoples to the north and south. Thus, they started gaining both wealth and power.
Some became powerful from finding metal Ore and started making weapons.
1500 a.d.
1468 Oct 14 Treaty of Peronne: Duke Charles the Stoute & French King Louis XI Oct 30 Charles the Bold
because they wanted the africans to become slaves
Songhai and Mali were closely connected through their historical roles as powerful empires in West Africa, both thriving on trade, particularly in gold and salt. The Songhai Empire emerged from the remnants of the Mali Empire, with its capital in Gao, which had been an important trading city under Mali. As Songhai expanded, it absorbed much of Mali's territory and culture, and both empires shared Islamic influences, promoting education and trade across the region. Ultimately, the decline of Mali paved the way for Songhai to become one of the largest empires in African history.
Ghana and Mali were based on trade in gold and salt. Ghana taxed merchants passing through to become wealthy and dominated the gold trade. Mali did the same, as did Songhai.