The West African kingdom of Ghana was an important trade center primarily because it controlled trade routes between major waterways. This strategic location allowed Ghana to connect traders from different regions, facilitating the exchange of valuable commodities such as gold and salt, which were both in high demand. Since the kingdom was situated between the Senegal and Niger rivers, it served as a commercial hub that linked the interior of Africa to the coastal trade routes, making it a critical player in the trans-Saharan trade networks.
Review the map showing the gold–salt trade route during the time of the Ghana Empire.
An untitled map of West Africa. A key shows Trade routes, Salt mines, Gold mines. Ghana is located between the Senegal and Niger rivers.
Why was the West African kingdom of Ghana an important trade center?
It controlled the entire Sahara desert.
It controlled all territory surrounding the Niger River.
It controlled trade routes between major waterways.
It controlled the coastline of West Africa.
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