Trans-Saharan Trade Overview

• Emergence of Muslim merchants in 7th-8th centuries increased trade volume across the Sahara.

• Empires like Mali, established in early 1200s, dramatically expanded commerce.

Trade Goods Exchange

• Africans traded: gold, ivory, hides, slaves.

• Items received in exchange: salt, cloth, paper, horses.

Geography and Resources

• Sahara Desert spans 3.6 million square miles; only 800 square miles are fertile oases for settlement.

• Importance of camels for trade: adapted to arid climates, could drink large amounts of water.

Role of Caravans

• Caravans, often with thousands of camels, facilitated trade and communication between diverse cultures.

• Used sufficient provisions to reach oases safely; routes include north-south and east-west paths.

Economic Impact on Societies

• Trans-Saharan trade was famous by the 8th century, generating wealth in Ghana and Mali.

• Introduced Islam to Sub-Saharan Africa, transforming cultural landscapes.

Mali Empire Development

• Ghana weakened by war, leading to rising powers like Mali.

• Mali profited from gold and taxed other trades, fostering economic growth.

• Major urban centers: Timbuktu and Gao became Islamic learning hubs.

Key Historical Figures

• Sundiata: Established Mali, cultivated gold trade; became a legendary figure.

• Mansa Musa: Expanded fame of Mali through his extravagant pilgrimage to Mecca, which showcased Mali's wealth and strengthened Islam in the region.

Decline of Mali and Rise of Songhai

• Mali declined post-Mansa Musa, leading to Songhai's emergence as the dominant West African power.

• Continued support for Islam, established rich trade networks and cultural exchanges.