history

Trade Across Africa and the Indian Ocean (up to 1300 AD)

Before 1300 AD, Africa had established trade networks that facilitated the exchange of valuable goods. Traders traveled by foot, camel, or boat, trading items like gold, ivory, salt, and cloth. These routes enabled societies to grow wealthy and powerful, with journeys often taking weeks or months.

Major Trade Routes Before 1300 AD

Trans-Saharan Trade: Connected West Africa with North Africa and the Mediterranean using camel caravans to trade gold, salt, and cloth.
Swahili Coast Trade: Linked East Africa to Arabia, India, and China through Indian Ocean routes where gold and ivory were traded for beads, silk, and porcelain.
Southern Africa Trade (Mapungubwe): Connected gold-rich Mapungubwe with the Swahili Coast, trading gold and ivory for luxury goods from Asia.

These networks facilitated connections with the wider world, contributing to the spread of ideas, technology, and culture.

Goods Traded

West Africa: Gold, ivory, and enslaved people traded for salt, cloth, and horses from North Africa.
North Africa: Salt, copper, glass, and books were exchanged for West African gold.
Swahili Coast: Gold, ivory, and animal skins were traded with Arabian, Indian, and Chinese merchants for beads, ceramics, and silk.
Mapungubwe: Gold and ivory traded for glass beads and ceramics.

Gold was crucial because of its value in North Africa, Europe, and Asia, while salt was vital in West Africa for preserving food.

Navigation

Stars and the Sun: Used for navigation.
Landmarks: Mountains, rivers, and trees aided in orientation.
Local Guides: Experienced guides helped find the best routes and water sources.