Africa Test

Sahara

Northern Africa (has a coastline besides southern part)

Sahel

Below the Sahara (central) far right and left are on coast

Mali

Northwestern Africa (inland)

Hausa

Below Mali, Central Africa closer to West Africa (close to coast but inland)

Benin

Southern part of Northern Africa (on coast)

Cairo

Southeast (egypt)

Hajj

The pilgrimage made to mecca that every muslim is required to do at least one in their lifetime

Griot

A west African storyteller , singer, musician, and oral historian who shapes faith formation and transmits it to future generations

Oba

A chief or ruler of Africa (king) in Benin

Mansa

A title for a ruler or king in Mali

Sundiata Keit

-founder of the Mali Empire

-known for his epic story and significant influence in West African history

Mansa Musa

-The tenth emperor of the Mali Empire

-known for his wealth, pilgrimage to Mecca

-had a significant influence on the spread of Islam and trade in West Africa.

Queen Amina

-A legendary queen of Zazzau (Zaria) in present-day Nigeria

-known for her military conquests and expansion of her kingdom.

Salt

-very valuable

-valued for is preservation qualities and dietary necessity

-used in trade and commerce across Africa, especially in the Sahara region.

Gold

-A highly sought-after precious metal

-essential for trade and wealth in ancient Africa

-Mali Empire and other West African kingdoms.

Trans-Sahara Trade

The trade network that linked North Africa and West Africa, facilitating the exchange of goods like salt and gold, and promoting cultural and Islamic influence across the desert region.

Camels

-Animals essential for transportation across the Sahara Desert

-known for their ability to endure harsh conditions and carry heavy loads

-They played a crucial role in the Trans-Sahara Trade.

Manden Charter

-A historical document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of the people of the Mali Empire

-emphasizing justice, equality, and the importance of trade.

-created after the battle of Kirina, it served to protect individual rights and promote social harmony.

Battle of Kirina

-A significant conflict in the 13th century that marked the rise of the Mali Empire

-leading to the establishment of its dominance in West Africa and the creation of the Manden Charter.

Benin Bronzes

-A group of plaques and sculptures that adorned the Royal Palace of Benin

-made from brass and ivory

-They showcase the artistry and history of the Benin Kingdom, reflecting its culture, power, and trade relations.

“The danger of a single story”

-Highlighting that relying on a single narrative can lead to misconceptions and stereotypes

- it oversimplifies complex realities and disregards diverse perspectives.

Types of evidence

-oral tradition

-Arabic language sources written by West African travelers

-Archaeological findings

-Art and material culture