Learn about the gold and salt trade in these two sub-Saharan empires that existed, in concurrent eras, between 1200-1500 AD.

Describes the rise and fall of the Mali and Songhai empires. Read about Timbuktu and the Mali leader called Sundiata or, the Lion King.

Read a brief biography of the king of the West African empire of Songhai from 1493 to 1528. Muhammad was also known as Askia Muhammad.

Offers a brief profile of the empire that was founded by Berbers and flourished due to Islam. Include pay-for-view resources.

Learn how Sonni Ali helped turn the Gao kingdom into the Songhay Empire in the late 15th century. Includes a summary of the empire's fall.