History Exam: 03.01 West African Kingdoms

In what way was the empire of Ghana different from the later empire of Mali? Ghana was ruled by Malinke leaders, and Mali was ruled by Soninke leaders. Ghana was mostly animists, and Mali had a Muslim-following leadership. Ghana was patrilineal, and Mali followed a matrilineal system Ghana was influenced by Arab architecture, and Mali was not. Points earned on this question: 5

What gave the Kingdom of Ghana a military advantage over its neighbors? Trade of salt and spices Climate and water access Iron and horses Gold and silver Points earned on this question: 5

How did Sundiata contribute to the Mali Empire? He recaptured gold-producing areas of West Africa. He established Mali's power in the region with his pilgrimage to Mecca. He created new architectural methods that are still used today. He made peace agreements with the Soso kingdom. Points earned on this question: 5

How did Mansa Musa elevate the standing of the Mali Empire in the world? His lavish pilgrimage to Mecca made the empire of Mali and its wealth widely known. His war with the Hausa convinced many that he was a powerful ruler who should be feared. His conquest of Ghana brought the gold trade in North Africa to a new golden age. His conversion to Christianity convinced many in Europe that Africa was an important place. Points earned on this question: 5

Which of the following is an accurate description of religious practices in Songhai? The people of Songhai were devoutly Islamic and did not tolerate other religions. The people of Songhai were devoutly Islamic until introduced to Christianity. The people of Songhai practiced both traditional spiritual beliefs and Islam. The people of Songhai practiced animism only, despite Islamic influence. Points earned on this question: 5

What important natural resource in West Africa did the Songhai Empire control? Salt mines in the Sahara Desert Nile River Atlas Mountains The only access to the Atlantic Ocean Points earned on this question: 5

What geographical feature contributed to why North Africa developed so differently from southern Africa? Niger River Inland Delta Sahel Region Sahara Desert Points earned on this question: 5

What role did the geography of the Sahel play in the rise of the medieval African kingdoms? It provided access to the large ports on the Atlantic. The lack of fresh water made rulers here more warlike. It provided a place for trade between the North and the South. The desert was difficult for outsiders to invade. Points earned on this question: 5

Which of the following contributed to the start of civil wars and Mali's decline? Struggles over the line of succession Fights over different interpretations of the Quran Family fights over control of the ivory trade Struggles over control of the slave trade Points earned on this question: 5

In what way did climate change affect Ghana's position in the trans-Saharan trading networks? The larger floods of the Niger River made consistent trade impossible. The rise in temperature in West Africa made insect-born disease more common. The desertification of Kumbi Saleh made it less important as a trade post. The rise in temperature made food production and gold mining difficult for the kingdoms. Points earned on this question: 5