They used it in trade to increase their wealth and power.
In ancient Songhai, the primary currency was gold, particularly in the form of gold dust, which was used for trade and transactions. Additionally, silver and copper were also utilized, along with a variety of traded goods such as salt, textiles, and agricultural products. The wealth of the Songhai Empire was largely derived from its control of the trans-Saharan trade routes, which facilitated the exchange of these valuable commodities.
The Songhai Empire was famous for its vast territory, making it one of the largest empires in African history. It was a major center of trade, particularly in gold and salt, which contributed to its wealth and economic power. Additionally, the empire was renowned for its centers of learning, especially in Timbuktu, where Islamic scholarship and culture flourished.
In ancient Songhai, a prominent West African empire, goods included gold, salt, ivory, and kola nuts, which were significant trade items. The empire thrived on the trans-Saharan trade routes, facilitating the exchange of these commodities with regions as far as Europe and the Middle East. Additionally, textiles, grains, and leather goods were also important in the local economy. The wealth generated from these goods contributed to Songhai's prosperity and cultural development.
The gold and salt trade
Ghana
Yes, it did.
Songhai traded gold and salt
Ghana, Mali, and Songhai DID mine gold and salt
No, they used Cowry shells as their currency. But gold, salt and copper was also accepted.
Gold, salt, ivory, iron.
salt,gold(of course),animal hides,koala nuts,
The Songhai empire controled the gold and salt trade, which gave them their money and power over West Africa.
Sahara and valuable salt and gold mines of central Africa
Salt and gold.
The Songhai empire traded mostly salt and gold.
The ancient kingdoms of Mali, Ghana, and Songhai grew very rich from the salt and gold trade before European Colonization.
Gold and salt