Ghana: Trade and Development

Uncover the fascinating history of the Ghana Empire! Learn about ancient West African trade, key figures, and the rise of new kingdoms.

The trade route started in the north, crossed the Sahara desert, and led southward to Ghana. The activity alone this route made Ghana extremely rich. Great secrecy regarding the location of the gold mines protected Ghana's wealth. In the center of the trade caravan routes was the city of Koumbi Saleh, the capital. It was one of the most active market places in West Africa. Cattle, sheep, honey, wheat, raisins, dried fruits, and other foods from distant points were offered for sale. Cloth called chigguyiya and leather goods were also sold in the markets. Weavers, potters, and smiths who worked in iron, gold, and copper were found in every market. An 11th-century historian wrote that Koumbi Saleh consisted of two distinct towns: a Muslim town with a dozen mosques; and a royal compound. Many of the wealthy, powerful residents lived in the forested compound area in the homes of wood and stone. The king's palace was also located there. Twentieth-century excavations have confirmed the early historian's claim. Te empire of Ghana had a number of different capitals during its many centuries. From the eighth century until the first half of the eleventh century Ghana became more and more powerful. A Muslim reform group under the leadership of Ibn Yacin began to flourish very quickly. The group contained many Muslims who enjoyed religious freedoms in Ghana. After Ibn Yacin's death in 1057, the Almoravid group under its new leader, Abu Bakr, began the attack and invasion of the Ghanaian Empire. In 1077, Koumbi Saleh fell. The Almoravids were fierce desert tribesmen who made the Ghanaians pay taxes and tribute. Those who refused were killed. After Abu Bakr's death in 1087, Almoravid power in Ghana began to disappear. Quarrels among the Almoravids split the group. When the Soninke rulers tried to regain control over Ghana, the kingdoms revolted. The Songhay, Mandingo, Tekrur, and other groups declared their independence. During the twelfth century, the southern branch of the Soninkes tried again to reestablish the Ghanaian Empire. They used the city of Sosso as its center. The most influential of the Sosso kings was Sumanguru. In 1235, the Sosso kingdom of Sumanguru was defeated by the Mandingoes. The Mandingoes called their kingdom Mali. What items were produced by the Ghanaians for trade? What was the most important city on the trade route? Who were the Almoravids? Who was the Almoravid's leader? Who was the most important Sosso? What new kingdom was created after the defeat of the Sossos? Word Search To mark a word click its first letter then click its last. SILENTBARTER KOUMBISALEH SUMANGURU ABUBAKR SONINKE MUSLIMS IRON GOLD SALT