Mali and Songhai Empires Overview

This lesson explores the history and geography of West Africa before the 16th century, focusing on the Ghana, Mali, and Songhai empires. It covers the geographical regions, trade routes, and cultural developments that shaped these empires. The lesson also highlights the rise and fall of these empires, their economic strategies, and their influence on global trade and culture. Students will learn to locate major African regions on a map and understand the cultural and historical context of West Africa.

What are the two main learning targets of this lesson?

• To study the history of the United States in the 20th century

• To use maps to locate major regions of Africa and describe life in West Africa before the 16th century

• To understand the cultural development of South America

• To learn about the geography of Europe and Asia

Which region of Africa is the focus of this lesson?

• East Africa

• North Africa

• Central Africa

• West Africa

What was a significant factor in the wealth and power of the Ghana Empire?

• Discovery of new continents

• Development of new languages

• Control of the trade routes

• Invention of the wheel

What was one of the reasons for the decline of the Ghana Empire?

• A drought affecting food production

• A long period of heavy rainfall

• An invasion by the Romans

• A volcanic eruption

Who was the most famous ruler of the Mali Empire known for his pilgrimage?

• Askia Muhammad

• Sunni Ali

• Mansa Musa

• Sundiata Keita

What was one of the key achievements of Mansa Musa during his reign?

• Building the Great Wall of China

• Turning Timbuktu into a center of learning

• Inventing the printing press

• Discovering America

What led to the decline of the Mali Empire after Mansa Musa's death?

• Internal conflicts over leadership

• Discovery of new gold mines

• A peaceful transition of power

• A new alliance with Europe

Who declared the independence of the Songhai Empire from Mali?

• Mansa Musa

• Sunni Ali

• Askia Muhammad

• Sundiata Keita

What was a major factor in the wealth of the Songhai Empire?

• Invention of the steam engine

• Discovery of oil

• Control of trade routes

• Control of the Nile River

What was one of the reasons for the decline of the Songhai Empire?

• A series of strong leaders

• The discovery of new trade routes

• A drought affecting farming

• An alliance with the Mali Empire