​African History

Sources of African history are limited.

1. ​Many Western historians claimed Africa was not "civilized" and had no history

2. ​Many African societies were non-literate

   1. ​There are very few resources to study.

   2. ​Books, notes, and letters from rulers are absent.

African History

​This does not mean that there is no history:

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• Outside writers such as classical writers, missionaries and Arabic writers documented African history.

• ​Griots kept the history of Africa alive through oral history

​Griots

• ​This was a family job - Griots were trained from a young age.

• ​Music helps griots to remember the story.

• ​Epic of Sundiata is famous. From this we know:

  • ​Sundiata united the kingdoms

  • ​Sundiata had advisers

  • ​Sundiata was powerful

​Trade Routes

• ​Timbuktu and Djenne were wealthy economic centers in the gold and silver trade.

• ​People travelled to these places for commerce and learning.

• ​Controlling this trade could lead to great wealth.

The Songhai and Trade Routes

• ​Used regional commanders to control the empire.

• ​Picked loyal people to keep trade safe.

• ​Did not rely on religion.

• ​Angered some Muslims.

• ​Granted religious freedom.

​Benefits of Trade

• ​New products for purchase by businesses and consumers.

• ​Jobs in exporting and importing

• ​Increased satisfaction.

• ​Tax money!

• ​Buy from places with excess.

• ​Competition leads to progress

​Fall of Songhai Empire

• ​Wealth attracts others!

• ​Morocco overthrows Songhai empire with gunpowder weapons

• ​Wanted control over the gold and salt mines