CH 7, sect. 2 – Kingdoms and States of Africa Ghana – the first great trading empire of W. Africa, emerged around 500 AD. Located in the upper Niger River valley – most people were farmers. Kings ruled without any laws, had a well trained army. They had so much gold they traded it for salt which was essential for survival.

Kingdom of Mali: Established in the 13th cent by Sundiata Keita. Conquered Ghana in 1240 AD, established Timbuktu as its main trading city. Became wealthy from the gold and salt trade. Most people in the kingdom were farmers. Most famous ruler was Mansa Musa – see PP.

Kingdom of Songhai: Founded by Sunni Ali in 1464 – conquered most of W. Africa. Took control of Jenne and Timbuktu; also took over the gold and salt trade. Muhammad Ture (Askia Muhammad): Took power in 1493, divided his empire into provinces. Songhai was eventually taken over and controlled by Morocco in the 1600’s (they had guns).