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Early People of West Africa
Who were the first people in the
area?hunter-
gatherers
How many lived together?
20-50 in small groups called
bands
What was their most important
resource?
water
Where did the hunter-gatherers of West
Africa get their water?
Niger River
What was the first step in developing
a “civilization”?
Learning to farm
Soninke
•One of the earliest people•Lived in small groups•Farmed•Niger River
Soninke
•A.D. 300 - began banding together Why?
•Protection against nomadic herders who wanted to move into the area
What were the early steps/results in
developing civilization?• Farming• Food Surplus• Permanent Shelters • Healthier / lived longer• Government• Specialization / Trade• Social Classes• Religion• Cities• Public works• Art/Architecture• Writing
Ancient Ghana
Ancient Ghana
•Developed 400 miles NW of present day Ghana•Became trading nation•most important goods – salt and gold
Ancient Ghana
•Founded A.D. 300•Began iron-smelting – A.D. 350•What were the effects of iron-smelting?
Effects of Iron-Smelting
• Stronger weapons….stronger military; extended
boundaries and controlled trade• Iron farming tools….
clear land faster; grow more food (easier)
Ancient Ghana – Trading Empire
•Location perfect•Between Sahara (north) & forest (south)