African Kingdoms and Empires

Flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to the empires, trade, and historical events in Africa.

Hausa Kingdom

A decentralized group of seven states in modern-day Nigeria, based on kinship ties and local geography.

Trans Sahara Trade Network

A trade route that facilitated the exchange of goods such as gold and salt between West Africa and Muslim merchants.

Sunjiata

The founder of the Malian Empire, known for his well-trained army and expansion of the empire's trade.

Mansa Musa

The king of Mali from 1312 to 1337, recognized as one of the richest individuals in history, known for his pilgrimage to Mecca and his contributions to education and architecture.

Songhai Empire

An empire founded by Sunni Ali in the 1400s that became larger and richer than Mali after its conquest.

Muhammad the First (Askia the Great)

A general under Sunni Ali who became king of the Songhai Empire and is known for his bureaucratic governance.

Berlin Conference (1885)

A meeting where European powers negotiated colonial claims in Africa without the presence of African leaders.

Almina Castle

The oldest European building in Sub-Saharan Africa, initially a storeroom for gold and later became a holding area for enslaved individuals.

Ghana

The first West African kingdom to gain wealth and power through its connections with the Trans Sahara trade.

Pan Africanism

A movement that emphasizes unity and cultural pride among African nations, seeking to counteract colonial influences.

Francisco de Gásca

Not referenced in the notes, but typically refers to a Spanish colonial official, not directly related to African history.

Ebola outbreak

A significant health crisis from 2014 to 2016 in West Africa, starting in Guinea and affecting neighboring countries.