Scholars have various theories about the internal and external factors that led to the fall of the Ghana Empire. In 1-2 sentences, explain what you think was the most important factor that led to the fall of the Ghana Empire and provide details to support your claim. (2 points)

One of the most important factors that led to the fall of the Ghana Empire was the shift in trade routes, as the introduction of new trading routes diverted commerce away from the region, diminishing the empire's control over lucrative trade and causing economic decline. This is supported by archaeological findings that show a decrease in trade goods and the rise of North African traders who bypassed Ghana in favor of other routes.