The Crusades

Mali was a major source and hub of the gold trade

slavery existed in the western Sudan

Europeans had begun to make inroads in West Africa

Mali remained isolated from Europe and the Middle East

To gain control over the Holy Land

To spread Christianity

To establish trade routes

To conquer the Seljuk Turks

They led to the decline of urban centers.

They stimulated the growth of cities through increased trade.

They caused cities to become more isolated.

They had no impact on urban development.