Identify which of the following was the final great trading empire of West Africa.(1 point) Responses Mali Mali Sahara Sahara Songhai Songhai Ghana
The final great trading empire of West Africa was the Songhai Empire.
The final great trading empire of West Africa was the Songhai Empire.
To identify the final great trading empire of West Africa, we need to examine the given options: Mali, Sahara, Songhai, and Ghana.
First, let's eliminate the option 'Sahara' since Sahara is not an empire but a desert region in Africa.
Next, we can eliminate 'Ghana' as it was an important empire before the rise of Mali.
This leaves us with two options: Mali and Songhai. Both were significant empires in West Africa, known for their thriving trade and economic power. However, to determine the final great trading empire, we need to compare their timelines.
The Mali Empire, led by Mansa Musa, reached its peak in the 14th century. It was known for its lucrative gold and salt trade across the trans-Saharan routes. Mali was a major center of Islamic learning and attracted scholars and traders from various parts of the world.
On the other hand, the Songhai Empire, under its ruler Sunni Ali, emerged in the 15th century. It expanded its boundaries and controlled the strategic trade routes. Songhai had a powerful navy, which helped protect its trade interests and gain dominance over other empires.
Considering the timelines, the Songhai Empire can be identified as the final great trading empire of West Africa. It succeeded the Mali Empire and lasted until the late 16th century.
In summary, the final great trading empire of West Africa was the Songhai Empire.