Ghana, Mali, and Songhai Kingdoms
Learning Objective
I can describe the key contributions of the West African kingdoms of Ghana, Mali, and Songhai.
Lesson Flow
Watch Video
The Rise and Fall of the Ghana Empire
Captivating History
Guided Notes
Key concepts students will learn:
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The Ghana Empire, located near modern-day Northern Senegal and Southern Mauritania, dominated trade in Africa due to rich goldfields and access to the trans-Saharan trade route.
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The Ghana Empire was ruled through a feudal system where the gaina exacted tributes from lesser groups and received import/export taxes in the form of the product being traded.
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The decline of the Ghana Empire was caused by a combination of factors, including climate change leading to drought, new gold mines opening further east, and the rise of the Almoravids and the Mali Empire.
Practice
9 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer
Exit Ticket
“Describe three key factors that contributed to the rise and success of the Ghana Empire as a major trading power in West Africa.”
Teacher Guide
Get the complete package:
- Answer keys for all questions
- Differentiation strategies
- Extension activities
- Printable student handouts
