The empires of Mali, Ghana, and Songhai most benefited economically from being near the-

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The empires of Mali, Ghana, and Songhai most benefited economically from being near the Trans-Saharan trade routes. These trade routes facilitated the exchange of valuable commodities, particularly gold, salt, and ivory. The strategic location of these empires allowed them to control and tax the trade, leading to great wealth and the development of powerful states. This trade network not only increased their economic prosperity but also contributed to cultural exchanges and the spread of Islam in the region.