Discusses the settlement of West Africa, the spread of Islam, the establishment of the gold trade, and the rise, civilization, and fall of the Soninke states known as Ghana

The empire of Ghana was a wealthy trading empire in West Africa located south of the Sahara Desert. Made up of a federation of the Soninke people, its richest historical record spans from about 750 until 1076 CE, due to the writings of Arab travelers and geographers from that period. The author explains what we know about this mysterious and fascinating empire, whose main city Kumbi Saleh was a link on the Saharan trade routes. Readers learn about the traditions, beliefs, and lifestyle of the Soninke and other indigenous peoples, as well as the effects of contact with Islam.

Examines the social, economic, political, and cultural life of the people of ancient Ghana, Mali, and Songhai, including profiles of influential citizens.

For more than a thousand years, from A.D. 500 to 1700, the medieval kingdoms of Ghana, Mali, and Songhay grew rich on the gold, salt, and slave trade that stretched across Africa. Scraping away hundreds of years of ignorance, prejudice, and mythology, award-winnnig authors Patricia and Fredrick McKissack reveal the glory of these forgotten empires while inviting us to share in the inspiring process of historical recovery that is taking place today.

This packet covers the mighty African kingdom of Ghana--rich in culture and tradition--that sprang up along the continent's west coast. Through strength and ingenuity, it overcame tremendous odds in adapting to the often harsh African climate and environment. Special emphasis is given to the rich tradition of African arts in the form of music, dance, and sculpture as well as to the prominence of religion and the importance of the family as principal organizing features of African society.