Songhai Empire in Africa

Timbuktu: An ancient city in Mali, situated 20 km north of the Niger River. It became a major center for trade and Islamic culture under the Songhai Empire.

Trans-Saharan Trade Routes: Trade routes across the Sahara desert which were central to economic activity throughout history including during the time of Songhai Empire.

Mali Empire: A powerful African empire that existed several centuries before Songhai and controlled many areas later ruled by Songhai.