Ghana: A west African Trading Empire

In what present day countries was the kingdom of Ghana located?

Mali and Mauritania.

What power did the king of Ghana have?

He was the head of the army, had the final say in matters of justice, and he lead his people in religious worship.

In Ghana, who inherited the throne if the king died?

The son of the king's sister.

What was true about Ghana's military?

The king had a regular army as well as reserved forces.

Why was Ghana wealthy?

The government collected taxes on goods passing through Ghana.

What two trade areas were Ghana located in?

North Africa and West Africa.

How did the introduction of camels around 300 C.E. cause the Trans-Saharan trade to grow?

Traders could establish new routes across the Sahara.

What described Ibn Battuta's journey to West Africa?

Dangerous

What product did people from North Africa want most?

Gold.

What did West Africans use salt for?

Keeping food from spoiling, add taste to their food, and improve their diet.

What made Taghaza an important location?

Salt was mined and cut into large blocks.

What was very important to the people of Taghaza?

Trading with caravans.

Where did trade caravans take their goods when they first entered Ghana?

Kumbi.

What would you pay for dried fruit in Kumbi?

Gold dust

How did the Wangarans know when caravans wanted to make an offer to trade?

Beating drums.

How was the system of silent barter a major advantage to the Wangarans?

It helped guard their secret location of gold mines.

What contributed to Ghana's downfall?

War.

Why were people forced to leave Ghana?

Farmers could not grow as many crops, water was scarce, and few trees remained.

Who conquered Cumbria around 1240?

The Mande of Mali.

How did Mali gain much of its wealth?

Trade.