GHANA EMPIRE FACTS

The Ghana Empire was a medieval West African state that flourished between the 6th and 13th centuries. Here are some key facts about the Ghana Empire:

1. Location: The Ghana Empire was located in West Africa, in what is now modern-day Mauritania and Mali.
2. Origins: The empire’s origins are unclear, but it is believed to have emerged around the 6th century AD in the area around the Niger and Senegal rivers.
3. Economy: The Ghana Empire’s economy was largely based on trade, with gold and salt being the most important commodities. The empire controlled the gold mines of Bambuk, and its merchants traded with North Africa, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East.
4. Government: The Ghana Empire was ruled by a king, or “ghana,” who held both political and religious power. The king was advised by a council of nobles and court officials.
5. Religion: The Ghana Empire’s religion was a mix of animism and Islam, with Islam becoming increasingly influential in the later years of the empire.
6. Decline: The Ghana Empire declined in the 13th century due to a combination of factors, including the rise of the Mali Empire and internal political strife.
7. Legacy: The Ghana Empire left a lasting legacy in West Africa, particularly in the areas of trade and culture. Its influence can be seen in the architecture, art, and language of the region.