Some of the remains of Great Zimbabwe

The Kingdoms of Sub-Saharan East and West Africa grew and thrived due to trade. Although people living in eastern Africa had different relationships with the caravans and boats that came to their shores than those in western Africa, in all cases trade enabled these kingdoms to become rich and further extend their influence.

East Africa was home to several prominent kingdoms during the medieval period. Because of the locations of Axum and Zimbabwe, these two civilizations traded with the Mediterranean world, countries surrounding the Indian Ocean, and places farther to the east. Axum was a Christian kingdom, which also helped increase ties to the Mediterranean world. Zimbabwe was rich in gold and was influenced more by India and China.

In West Africa, Ghana, Mali, and Songhai traded their abundance of gold for various other types of goods, like salt. Two of the kingdoms were ruled by Muslim leaders who helped strengthen ties with the Islamic world. Timbuktu became a major center for learning during this time period. Kumbi Saleh and Gao also were major cities. When neighboring tribes and communities desired control of the power and wealth of these West African kingdoms, they faced regional conflicts that led to decline.