The Ghana Empire reached its peak in the 11th century, when it controlled a vast area stretching from the Senegal River to the Niger River. However, the empire began to decline in the 12th century due to attacks from the Almoravids, a Muslim Berber dynasty from North Africa. The Almoravids conquered Ghana in 1076 and established a new empire in its place.
Mali was the second major trading state of Africa south of the Sahara. It arose in the 13th century and was located in what is now southeastern Senegal and southwestern Mali. Mali's wealth was also based on its control of the trans-Saharan gold trade. However, Mali also produced its own cotton, rice, and millet.
The Mali Empire reached its peak in the 14th century, when it controlled a vast area stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Niger River. However, the empire began to decline in the 15th century due to internal conflicts and attacks from the Songhai, a rival trading state. The Songhai conquered Mali in 1464 and established a new empire in its place.
Songhai was the third major trading state of Africa south of the Sahara. It arose in the 15th century and was located in what is now western Niger, eastern Mali, and southwestern Burkina Faso. Songhai's wealth was based on its control of the trans-Saharan gold trade and its own agricultural resources.
The Songhai Empire reached its peak in the 16th century, when it controlled a vast area stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Lake Chad Basin. However, the empire began to decline in the late 16th century due to internal conflicts and attacks from the Moroccan Saadi dynasty. The Saadis conquered Songhai in 1591 and established a new empire in its place.
