CH 19 SEC 3 West Africa

I. A History of Rich Trading Empires The three main empires that rose in West Africa were the Songhai, Ghana, and Mali. The main products traded were gold and salt, and for a time they were worth the same. First, Ghana reigned, then Mali, and finally the Songhai, until they were conquered by Morocco.

I. A History of Rich Trading Empires Some areas of West Africa had stateless societies, where groups were ruled by families and not elected governments or monarchs. They were ended by Europeans coming in and colonizing the areas.

II. West Africa Struggles Economically West Africa today still relies on trade for their economic stability. Some regions are able to thrive, while others are struggling. Ghana exports many raw minerals, gold, and diamonds to industrialized nations. They have a good standard of living, but it is still lower than western countries.

II. West Africa Struggles Economically Sierra Leone has the worst economy in West Africa. They had relied on diamond mines for income, but government instability and civil war have destroyed trade. Education is very low, creating less skilled workers, and the transportation systems are almost non-existent.

III. Cultural Symbols of West Africa Two of the most well-known artistic cultural groups are the Ashanti and the Benin. The Ashanti are known as weavers. They also create beautiful wood carvings and masks. The Benin used metal and terra cotta, and are most famous for their brass figures, masks, and jewelry.

IV. Music in Daily Life African music has had a huge effect on music throughout the world. The slave trade brought African music to places like the U.S. where it blended with other types to create Jazz, Blues, and Reggae.

In your notebooks Find an example of either Ashanti weaving or Benin art and draw that example in your notebook, citing what website address you found it. Make sure the picture is colored. Full page.