The Ghana Empire, also known as the Wagadou Empire, began to rise around the 4th century CE, but it became a significant empire and began expanding its influence and conquering surrounding regions around the 8th century CE. By the late 8th century, particularly around 800 CE, the empire was well-established, controlling trade routes and surrounding territories.
Here are some important events in the timeline of the Ghana Empire:
- 4th Century CE: Formation of the Ghana Empire, which starts as a small kingdom.
- 8th Century CE (circa 700s): Ghana begins to expand its influence and conquers surrounding kingdoms, particularly in connection with the trade networks in the region, especially gold and salt.
- 9th Century CE: The empire reaches its peak, controlling trade routes across West Africa.
- 11th Century CE: Significant growth and territorial expansion occur; the empire becomes a major player in trans-Saharan trade.
- Circa 1076 CE: The Almoravids, a Muslim Berber group, invade the Ghana Empire, leading to significant political and economic challenges.
The Ghana Empire's decline began in the late 11th century, leading to its eventual fragmentation by the 12th century. Nonetheless, its early period of conquest and expansion during the 8th century marked its transformation into a major empire in West Africa.