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What factors led to the decline of the Ghana Empire?

The decline of the Ghana Empire was primarily due to internal conflicts, economic decline, and invasions by the Almoravids.

The Ghana Empire, also known as Wagadou, was a powerful state in West Africa during the period from the 8th to the 13th century. However, by the end of the 13th century, the empire had significantly declined due to a combination of internal and external factors.

One of the main internal factors was the conflict between the ruling Soninke people and the subordinate groups within the empire. The Soninke had established their dominance through military conquest, but over time, the subjugated groups began to resist their rule. This led to a series of rebellions and civil wars, which weakened the empire and made it vulnerable to external threats.

Another internal factor was the economic decline. The Ghana Empire was heavily dependent on the trans-Saharan trade, particularly the trade in gold and salt. However, the empire's control over these trade routes began to wane in the 11th century. This was partly due to the rise of new trading states in the region, such as the Mali Empire, which competed with Ghana for control of the trade routes. The loss of trade revenue led to a decline in the empire's wealth and power.

The final blow to the Ghana Empire came from the external invasions by the Almoravids, a Berber Muslim dynasty from North Africa. The Almoravids launched a series of invasions against the Ghana Empire in the late 11th century. These invasions were motivated by both religious and economic reasons. The Almoravids sought to spread Islam in West Africa and also to gain control over the lucrative trans-Saharan trade routes. The invasions caused significant destruction and disruption, further weakening the empire.

IB History Tutor Summary: The Ghana Empire declined by the end of the 13th century due to internal strife, economic downturns, and Almoravid invasions. Internal conflicts arose from resistance within, while economic struggles stemmed from losing control over vital trade routes. The empire's final challenge came from the Almoravids, who invaded for religious and economic gains, leading to the empire's downfall.

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