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Early People of West Africa. Who were the first people in the area?. h unter-gatherers. How many lived together?. 20-50 in small groups called bands. What was their most important resource?. water. Where did the hunter-gatherers of West Africa get their water?. Niger River.
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Who were the first people in the area? hunter-gatherers
How many lived together? 20-50 in small groups called bands
Where did the hunter-gatherers of West Africa get their water? Niger River
What was the first step in developing a “civilization”? Learning to farm
Soninke • One of the earliest people • Lived in small groups • Farmed • Niger River
Soninke • A.D. 300 - began banding together Why? • Protection against nomadic herders who wanted to move into the area
Farming • Food Surplus • Permanent Shelters • Healthier / lived longer • Government • Specialization / Trade • Social Classes • Religion • Cities • Public works • Art/Architecture • Writing What were the early steps/results in developing civilization?
Ancient Ghana • Developed 400 miles NW of present day Ghana • Became trading nation • most important goods – salt and gold
Ancient Ghana • Founded A.D. 300 • Began iron-smelting – A.D. 350 • What were the effects of iron-smelting?
Effects of Iron-Smelting • Stronger weapons…. stronger military; extended boundaries and controlled trade • Iron farming tools…. clear land faster; grow more food (easier)
Ancient Ghana – Trading Empire • Location perfect • Between Sahara (north) & forest (south)