Ancient West Africa: Key Concepts

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Ghana Empire

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First known kingdom in West Africa, 6th-13th century

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Mali Empire

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Famous for wealth and trade, 13th-16th century

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Songhai Empire

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Largest empire in African history, 15th-16th century

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Timbuktu

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Center of trade and learning in Mali

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Mansa Musa

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Richest man in history, ruled Mali

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Trans-Saharan Trade

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Trade route across the Sahara, gold and salt

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Niger River

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Major river, supported agriculture and trade

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Animism

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Traditional religion, belief in spirits

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Griots

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Oral historians and storytellers

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Iron Age

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Introduction of iron tools, 1st millennium BCE