Define Sudanic Empires.
Powerful West African states that controlled gold mines and trade routes.
What is trans-Saharan trade?
Trade across the Sahara Desert, linking North Africa with sub-Saharan Africa.
Define cultural blending.
The merging of different cultural elements, such as Islamic teachings with local beliefs.
What is the Sankore Madrasah?
A university in Timbuktu, sponsored by Mansa Musa, that became a major center of learning.
Define Atlantic Trade.
Trade across the Atlantic Ocean, especially between Europe, Africa, and the Americas.
What is the significance of Timbuktu?
A major trade and learning center in Mali and Songhai, attracting scholars and merchants.
Define 'hajj'.
The Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca, one of the five pillars of Islam.
What does 'Eurocentric' mean?
Focusing on European culture or history to the exclusion of a wider view of the world.
Define 'diaspora'.
The dispersion of any people from their original homeland.
What is Gullah/Geechee culture?
A distinct African American culture found in the coastal regions of the Southeastern United States, retaining many West African traditions.
What was the role of Islam in the Sudanic empires?
Islam spread through trade, influencing rulers, culture, and education in cities like Timbuktu.
What was the significance of Timbuktu and Djenne?
Major centers of trade and Islamic learning, attracting scholars and merchants.
How did West African cultures influence African American identity?
Enslaved Africans brought traditions, skills, and knowledge that shaped African American language, music, and practices.
What caused the decline of Songhai?
Cause: Shift from trans-Saharan to Atlantic routes. Effect: Diminished wealth.
What was the effect of Mansa Musa's hajj?
Cause: Mansa Musa's pilgrimage. Effect: Attracted European merchants and cartographers.
What was the effect of Portuguese exploration?
Cause: Portuguese exploration. Effect: Led to European trading posts along the West African coast.
What was the effect of internal conflicts in Songhai?
Cause: Internal conflicts. Effect: Moroccan invasion in 1591 hastened Songhai's decline.
What was the effect of Mali's wealth and grandeur?
Cause: Mali's wealth and grandeur. Effect: Inspired European exploration.
What was the effect of the Trans-Saharan trade?
Cause: Trans-Saharan trade. Effect: Brought Muslim traders, scholars, and administrators.
What was the effect of superior horses and weapons in Mali?
Cause: Superior horses and weapons. Effect: Helped Mali expand and maintain control.
