As Islamic empires expanded their control over North Africa, vast trade networks extended into West Africa. Ghana, the earliest of West-African Kingdoms developed c. 300 A.D. It wa... As Islamic empires expanded their control over North Africa, vast trade networks extended into West Africa. Ghana, the earliest of West-African Kingdoms developed c. 300 A.D. It was known by foreign traders as “The Land of Gold.” Ghana was overtaken by another great empire - Mali - around 1000 A.D. Mali’s best-known leader, Mansa Musa, was a devout Muslim and worked to expand the empire’s trade network and wealth. By 1300 A.D. the Songhai Empire separated from Mali and eventually surpassed it in power and size. Timbuktu was a major cultural and intellectual city at the heart of Songhay with three universities.
Understand the Problem
The question is asking us to summarize or analyze the historical information provided about the Islamic empires in North and West Africa, focusing on the kingdoms of Ghana, Mali, and Songhai, as well as trade and culture.
Answer
Ghana was known as 'The Land of Gold'.
The final answer is that Ghana was known as 'The Land of Gold' due to its wealth and control over the gold trade.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is that Ghana was known as 'The Land of Gold' due to its wealth and control over the gold trade.
More Information
Ghana earned the title 'The Land of Gold' because of its abundant wealth from the gold trade. Ghana's control over vast gold mines allowed it to become a major player in trans-Saharan trade networks.
Sources
- The Trans-Saharan Gold Trade (7th–14th Century) | Essay - metmuseum.org
- Empires Of Medieval West Africa: Ghana, Mali, And Songhay - sahistory.org.za
- West African Empires | World Civilizations I (HIS101) – Biel - courses.lumenlearning.com
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