Learn about the history of the Ghanaian Empire, from when it was founded until it was absorbed into other empires. Discover the accomplishments of the Ghanaian Empire and the leaders who guided it. Uncover how this powerful empire influenced the world and its lasting impacts.
Exploring the Ghanaian Empire
6th century CE - The Ghanaian Empire is founded by the Soninke people in what is now southeastern Mauritania and western Mali. 8th century CE - The Ghanaian Empire begins to expand its territory through conquest and trade, becoming a major power in West Africa.
Timeline of the Ghanaian Empire 1/3
Which people founded the Ghanaian Empire
- Ashanti
- Soninke
- Malinke
- Wagadou
10th century CE - The Ghanaian Empire establishes a centralized government under King Kaya Maghan Cisse, who improve agriculture and trade. 11th century CE - King Tenkamenin rules the Ghanaian Empire and expands its territory further, establishing a powerful army and introducing a number of social and economic reforms.
Timeline of the Ghanaian Empire 2/3
Which 11th century King expanded and reformed the Ghanaian Empire
- King Tenkamenin
- King Kaya Maghan
- Mansa Musa
- King Charles III
13th century CE - The Ghanaian Empire comes under attack from the Mali Empire. The Ghanaian Empire is eventually conquered by the Mali Empire, leading to its decline. 16th century CE - The Ghanaian Empire ceases to exist as a political entity, but its legacy continues to shape the history and culture of West Africa.
Timeline of the Ghanaian Empire 3/3
Who conquered the Ghanaian Empire?
- The Empire of Mali
- Songhai
- Benin
- Ethiopia
Ghanaian Empire: An ancient African empire located in modern-day Mauritania and Mali. It was the first of the great West African empires and lasted from the 8th century to the 13th century. Accomplishments: Ghanaian Empire was known for its strong military, wealth and government. It was one of the most powerful empires of its time and was known for its successful trade with the Arab world. Leader: The leader of the Ghanaian Empire was known as the 'Ghana' or 'Mansa'. He was a powerful ruler and was responsible for the success of the empire.
Concepts:
What were the leaders of the Ghanaian Empire known as?
The Ghanaian Empire was the first of its kind to use a form of currency called 'manillas' which were made of bronze, iron, and copper. The Ghanaian Empire had a complex legal system that was based on the Islamic religion. The leader of the Ghanaian Empire in the 11th century was named Tunka Manin, and he was considered to be the most powerful ruler in West Africa at the time. The language spoken by the Ghanaians was Fulani, though many other languages were spoken in the empire.
Did you know?
What were "Manillas"?
- Pieces of land
- Currency
- Warriors
- Outsiders
The Ghanaian Empire was also known for its promotion of education and learning. The empire's rulers established a system of schools and universities, where students could study a wide range of subjects, including history, law, and religion. This helped to establish the empire as a center of learning and scholarship in West Africa.
Accomplishments: Education
The Ghanaian Empire was one of the first political entities in West Africa to establish a centralized government. The empire was ruled by a king, who had a complex system of officials and advisers to help him govern. This system helped to promote stability and social order within the empire.
Accomplishments: Government
Name one accomplishment of the Ghanaian empire
Should Ghanaian history be taught in American classrooms and why is this important to American students?
What were the major accomplishments of the Ghanaian Empire?
What are some of the ways that the leader of the Ghanaian Empire impacted the society?
Brain break: Create a drawing that combines the features of two different animals, such as a snake with wings or a lion with scales. Make sure to use color and detail in your drawing to make it as creative and imaginative as possible!
What year did the Ghanaian Empire begin?
- 300 CE
- 500 CE
- 1000 CE
- 400 BCE
What was the main religion of the Ghanaian Empire?
- Buddhism
- Islam
- Christianity
- Animism
What language did the people of the Ghanaian Empire speak?
What is one accomplishment of the Ghanaian Empire?
- Advanced military tactics
- Developed a writing system
- Trade with Europe and North Africa
- Built the Great Wall of Ghana
What was the name of the most famous leader of the Ghanaian Empire?
- Tenkamenin
- Mansa Musa
- Askia the Great
- Taharqa