The Global Tapestry (1200-1450)

Increased militarization to improve fortifications along major trade routes, strengthening defenses against potential invaders.

The establishment of more extensive diplomatic relations with far-flung powers seeking alternative trading partners and alliances.

Reliance on other forms of commerce such as riverine trading or coastal shipping could evolve, resulting in diversified economies and altered social hierarchies.

A turn towards large-scale agriculture exploiting underutilized fertile lands in order to compensate for the loss of Trans-Saharan revenue.

Sokoto Caliphate.

Swahili Coast City-States.

Ghana Empire.

Benin Kingdom.

They strengthened local economies by fostering connections with sub-Saharan Africa.

They led to political instability as regional power struggles erupted over control of these profitable routes.

They resulted in overpopulation due to influxes of traders and immigrants.

They caused a decline in traditional industries as imported goods flooded local markets.

Cleopatra VII

Shaka Zulu

Mansa Musa

Osei Tutu I

Showed the decline of trans-Saharan trade by highlighting reliance on gold alone.

Indicated a shift towards a barter economy by reducing trade with foreign merchants.

Demonstrated the wealth and economic power of Mali through lavish spending.

Exposed economic vulnerabilities due to lack of diversification in trade goods.

It might result in isolationism due to increased self-sufficiency from abundant new fishery resources accessed through improved naval technology.

Naval expansion would likely lead to direct competition and conflict with European powers, accelerating colonial encounters.

Enhanced maritime capabilities could've extended its trade reach into the Indian Ocean, bolstering wealth and cultural exchanges.

Development of advanced naval tech would shift focus away from gold trade, diminishing Great Zimbabwe's status as a trading center.

Silk

Agriculture

Salt

Leather

Strengthened regional kingdoms by providing better tools and weapons.

Enabled transoceanic voyages connecting Africa with other continents.

Caused widespread deforestation due to heavy industry demands.

Reduced social stratification by making metal goods more accessible.

Swahili would not exist as a language.

African city-states would've outpaced China's technological advancements.

They might not have developed into cosmopolitan, wealthy centers of culture and commerce.

They would be colonized by European powers earlier than they were.

By integrating West African empires into trans-Saharan trade routes, allowing for influential cultural exchanges and wealth accumulation challenging traditional Europe-centered timelines.

By leading to technological innovations that surpassed European development during this period, redefining technological progress narratives.

By independently developing a system akin to feudalism that mirrored European structures, prompting revisionist perspectives on governance.

By enabling West African leaders to conquer Mediterranean territories, shifting focus away from European conquests.