Africa

Characteristics of Sub-Saharan society

Ethiopia

Maintained Christianity, Isolated Arab/Islam expansion, Independent

Mali trade impact

Mansa Musa, strong Trade network, spread of Islam, Timbuktu

Timbuktu

Trade city of Mali Kingdom, Library & Uni, Cultural center of West Africa

Mali impact on Islamic expansion

Spread through trade networks

Mansa Musa

Strong Trade network, spread of Islam, pilgrimage to Mecca 1334

Sunni Ali

Established the Songhay Kingdom, Ruthless tactical commander, expanded borders

Sudanic States’ political and social characteristics

Maintained culture, fused Islam with traditional local beliefs, Timbuktu and Djenne cultural centers, agricultural community, government dominated by elite families

Impact of Islam

Universal faith serving interest of rules, common religion & law, merchant trust, rulers used titles (emir/caliph) for auth, muslim scribes/advisors

Eastern Kingdoms’ trade impact

Port Cities along Indian Ocean coast: Mogadishu, Mombasa, & Zanzibar

Common features of the Forest and Plain Kingdoms

Diverse Cultures: herding/agriculture, small villages, state formations, islam did not spread

Benin

Large city state, Art through ivory and bronze scultures, royal compound, contact with Portugese 1485