How did the kings of Ghana become wealthy

Answer 1

The kings of Ghana became wealthy through their control and taxation of the gold and salt trade routes that passed through their empire. Ghana was located in the region known as the Sahel, which was a fertile grassland area located between the Sahara Desert and the tropical rainforest. The empire had access to rich gold mines in present-day Mali and Burkina Faso, and they controlled the trade routes that connected these mines with the salt mines in the Sahara Desert.

The kings of Ghana imposed taxes on the gold and salt that was traded within their empire. They also established strict regulations and tolls on the traders passing through their territory. By controlling the trade, the kings were able to accumulate vast amounts of gold and gained immense wealth and power.

Additionally, the kings of Ghana also controlled the trans-Saharan trade routes, which allowed them to levy taxes on the trade of goods and commodities such as textiles, ivory, slaves, and other luxury items. These revenues from trade further contributed to their wealth.

The wealth and prosperity of the kings of Ghana attracted merchants and travelers from across Africa, the Arab world, and even as far as Europe. This economic success also allowed the kings to develop a strong military force, build fortified cities, and establish a well-organized and centralized government, further enhancing their wealth and power.