GREAT EMPIRES OF THE PAST - Empires of Medieval West Africa: Ghana, Mali, and Songhay (2nd rev. ed. 2009)

Beginning in the eighth century, the three successive empires of Ghana, Mali, and Songhay dominated West African history for almost a millennium. In control of both regional and trans-Saharan trade networks, the empires flourished and grew under a series of powerful leaders, including Mansa Musa, whose accomplishments were celebrated in European capitals. Drawing on a rich oral tradition, numerous trips to the region, and the latest scholarship available on this important but little-studied era, scholar and author David C. Conrad explores the people, places, and ideas that made up this trio of empires. Empires of Medieval West Africa, Revised Edition discusses the vital role salt and other natural resources played in the development of the empires, the rich and diverse cultures, and the influence of the growth of Islam during the later periods of the empires. Great Empires of the Past narrates the stories of the most influential empires in world history. Each volume in the series provides an overview of one empire or civilization, exploring its rise and fall, the extent of its influence, society and daily life, and impact in the modern world. Numerous sidebars highlight connections to today, key primary documents, and interesting facts. Full-color photographs and maps, a time line, glossary, bibliography, list of further resources, and an index provide readers with additional access to the information. Beginning about 1200 CE, the Mali, Songhay, and Ghana empires spread their sequential influence across the western horn of Africa. This title discusses the vital role salt and other natural resources played in the development of the empires, the rich and diverse cultures, and the influence of the Islamic Empire on every day life. Beginning about 1200 CE, the Mali, Songhay, and Ghana empires spread their sequential influence across the western horn of Africa, making advances in trade, language, culture, and economy. Influenced heavily by Islam in their later periods, these empires flourished and grew under a series of powerful leaders, including one, Mansa Musa, whose skills were celebrated in European capitals. ""Empires of Medieval West Africa, Revised Edition"" discusses the vital role salt and other natural resources played in the development of the empires, the rich and diverse cultures, and the influence of the growing Islamic Empire on every day life. Included are some transcriptions of the oral tradition that is, in many cases, the only record of the deeds and achievements of these people. Connections to life today include the continuing impact of Islam and tribal groups in today's Africa and the influence of the medieval traditions on modern music and cuisine The Ghana Empire The Mali Empire The Songhay Empire Society and culture The Soninke people of the Ghana Empire The Mande people of the Mali Empire The Songhay people.