Which factor contributed to the rise of African empires such as Ghana and Mali?
Their creation and involvement in trade networks.
They focused only on agricultural production.
They didn't engage in warfare with other nations.
Their geographic location protected them from attacks.
Their creation and involvement in trade networks.
The factor that primarily contributed to the rise of African empires such as Ghana and Mali was their creation and involvement in trade networks. This allowed them to establish prosperous economies and accumulate wealth and resources.
To understand this, we can examine the historical context. Ghana and Mali were strategically located in West Africa, which made them central points for trans-Saharan trade routes. They controlled the trade of valuable commodities such as gold, salt, and other goods. Their participation in these trade networks enabled them to establish strong economic foundations and accumulate significant wealth.
Ghana, for example, became a powerful empire by controlling the gold and salt trade. Its kings taxed the traders passing through their territory, which provided the empire with considerable wealth. This wealth allowed the rulers to maintain a strong military and establish political control over a vast area.
Similarly, Mali rose to prominence by controlling and encouraging trade across the Sahel region. Its most famous ruler, Mansa Musa, made a famous pilgrimage to Mecca in 1324, where he distributed generous amounts of gold, highlighting the empire's immense wealth.
It is important to note that the involvement in trade networks was not the sole contributing factor, as other factors such as agricultural production, military strength, and geographic location played a role as well. However, the creation and engagement in trade networks were crucial for the economic prosperity and subsequent rise of these empires.