Trade across the Sahara Dessert Flashcards
Where was Mali located?
When was it powerful?
West Africa.
Most powerful kingdom in Africa in the 14th Century.
Why was Mali powerful?
It was a thriving centre for trade.
They were wealthy from trade.
They became powerful as a result of trans-Sahara trade.
Sahara trade linked Mali to the Middle East and Europe.
They were rich in gold.
What is a mansa?
A king or emperor of Mali.
Why was it difficult to cross the Sahara?
Extremely hot in day Freezing cold at night Sandstorms Easy to get lost Running out of water is a danger
Why were camels the best means of transport?
They can close nostrils Regurgitates food, so doesn't need to eat often Flat hooves to walk on sand Hump stores fat white coloured skin to reflect sun Two toes give grip in sand
What type of goods were traded?
From Persia & Arabia - rugs, swords, daggers, glass.
From India - spices, cloth, dyes & beads.
In exchange Mali traded - gold, slaves, ivory, salt & ostrich feathers.
How did Islam spread across North Africa and into West Africa via traders?
It spread when traders from the Middle East went to trade with West Africa.
Why did West Africans convert to Islam?
They converted to Islam because they would get better trades with the Arabs if they were Islamic like they were.
Who made Islam the state religion in Mali, and did they allow religious freedom.
Mansa Musa and yes.
Who ruled Mali in their height of power? (1312-1337)
Mansa Musa.
What was he known as?
Mali the Magnificent and the Lion of Mali.
How did he divide Mali and who was incharge of running each section?
He divided Mali into provinces, each ruled by a governor.
What did he pay to have built while he ruled?
Mosques, libraries and centres for learning.
What were some things he did during his reign?
- Set up a more efficient government than any other kings
- Maintained power through taxes
- Had friendly relationships with neighbouring countries African states
- Employed judges, scribes and civil servants to help him strengthen his control of the empire
- Had a strong army to keep order, so traders and travellers could move without fear of robbers
What is Hadj?
Hadj is the Arab word pilgrimage to Mecca to pray at the place where Mohammed went to heaven (Mecca in modern Saudi Arabia).
