Three prominent civilizations of West Africa were the kingdoms of Ghana, Mali, and Songhai. They wee all near the Niger River, which was related to their success. They took advantage of it by using it for trade, traveling, and as a water source.
The Niger River was very important to the development and prosperity of West Africa. The riverbeds were fertile for crops and it provided an efficient was of traveling. It connected West Africa to the rest of the world. It was also used for irrigation, which increased food supply. It helped West Africa to trade as well, because it was easy to transport goods by river.
The civilizations of West Africa grew as a result of strong leaders conquering other lands and expanding their empires. They also became more powerful because of the trade of gold, salt, slaves, and food. They became connected to Europe because of the slave trade. They began to trade with many other countries. The Niger River helped them grow food and trade goods.
The pilgrimage of Mansa Musa in all his glory announced to the world the brilliance of West Africa. He took one thousand men and three hundred camels carrying gold with him. He gave out gold everywhere he went. It spread the message that West Africa was so rich that it had enough gold to spare for everyone. It also said that West Africa was very powerful and could let its leader travel without worry.
Over all, the kingdoms of Ghana, Mali, and Songhai were very rich and powerful kingdoms. They dominated trade and conquered many other states. During the glory of West Africa, they are seen as three of the greatest empires of the time.
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