West Africa Study Guide: Questions to Prepare

Front

What are the four major climatic and vegetation zones of Africa?

Back

Tropical Rainforest, Savannah, Desert, Mediterranean

Answer explanation

The four major climatic and vegetation zones of Africa are Tropical Rainforest, Savannah, Desert, and Mediterranean. These zones reflect the continent's diverse climate and ecosystems, making the first choice the correct answer.

Front

What is the significance of the Sahara Desert in trade?

Back

It is a key trade route for caravans.

Answer explanation

The Sahara Desert is significant in trade as it serves as a key trade route for caravans, facilitating the movement of goods across vast distances, despite its harsh conditions.

Front

What is the Sahel, and how is it different from the savanna?

Back

The Sahel is a semi-arid region, while the savanna is a tropical grassland.

Answer explanation

The Sahel is a semi-arid region located between the Sahara Desert and the savanna, which is a tropical grassland characterized by scattered trees and grasses. This distinction highlights their different climates and ecosystems.

Front

Ghana’s location in the Sahel contributed to its wealth because it was a center for which trade?

Back

Gold and salt trade

Answer explanation

Ghana's strategic location in the Sahel made it a hub for the gold and salt trade, which were highly valued commodities in ancient times, contributing significantly to its wealth and economic power.

Front

What were the first two major empires in West Africa?

Back

Ghana and Mali

Answer explanation

The first two major empires in West Africa were Ghana and Mali. Ghana was known for its wealth and trade, while Mali rose to prominence later, becoming famous for its cultural and economic achievements.

Front

How did the Ghana Empire gain wealth and power?

Back

By trading gold and salt

Answer explanation

The Ghana Empire gained wealth and power primarily by trading gold and salt, which were highly valued commodities. This trade established them as a significant economic power in West Africa.

Front

What was a major reason for the decline of the Ghana Empire?

Back

Invasion by the Almoravids

Answer explanation

The decline of the Ghana Empire was significantly influenced by the invasion of the Almoravids, which disrupted trade and weakened the empire's power, leading to its eventual downfall.

Front

Who founded the Mali Empire, and what made it powerful?

Back

Sundiata Keita; its wealth in gold and strategic location

Answer explanation

Sundiata Keita founded the Mali Empire, which became powerful due to its vast wealth in gold and its strategic location along trade routes, facilitating commerce and cultural exchange.

Front

What was one significant impact of Mansa Musa’s pilgrimage to Mecca?

Back

It resulted in the spread of Islam and increased trade connections.

Answer explanation

Mansa Musa's pilgrimage to Mecca significantly spread Islam in Mali and West Africa, enhancing cultural ties and increasing trade connections with other regions, which contributed to the empire's prosperity.

Front

Which empire replaced the Mali Empire, and who was one of its significant rulers?

Back

Songhai Empire, Askia Muhammad

Answer explanation

The Mali Empire was succeeded by the Songhai Empire, which became one of the largest empires in West Africa. A significant ruler of the Songhai Empire was Askia Muhammad, known for his administrative reforms and expansion of the empire.