rEssay: You must be able to answer all parts of the following essays. Of the three, one (or a combination) will appear on the exam which you will answer from memory. 50 points. 1. Compare and...

WRITTEN ASSIGNMENT        2
WRITTEN ASSIGNMENT
Table of contents
Discussion 1    3
Discussion 2    4
Discussion 3    5
References    7
Discussion 1
    Between the eighth and sixteenth centuries, when they were at the pinnacle of their political development, Ghana, Mali, and Songhay were three important West African empires. Each of these empires had distinctive characteristics of its own and contributed significantly to West Africa and Europe throughout their own eras. The earliest of the three empires was Ghana, which was renowned for its opulence thanks in large part to its dominance over trans-Saharan trade routes. Koumbi Saleh, the capital of the kingdom, was a significant hub for the trade of commodities including gold, ivory, and salt. The establishment of a powerful centralized administration by Ghana's kings was successful in assisting the empire in keeping control of its extensive domains.
    After Ghana's collapse, Mali rose to prominence and was renowned for its cultural and intellectual accomplishments, notably the founding of the University of Timbuktu, which served as a hub for learning for academics from all across the area. Leaders of Mali were renowned for their riches and religiosity, like Mansa Musa. The legendary journey to Mecca made by Mansa Musa in 1324 revealed the empire's power, riches, and religious fervor (Camara, 2020). The establishment of Songhay, the final of the three empires, came after Mali's fall. It was known for its military might, which was evidenced by its capacity to annex neighboring countries. The Songhay Empire was renowned for its religious tolerance, which let various cultures and religions to coexist within its borders. Askia Mohammad, its most well-known king, enlarged the empire and made substantial contributions to law, religion, and education.
    In conclusion, the expansion and development of Ghana, Mali, and Songhay show the profound influence each nation had on Europe and West Africa during the height of their political development. Mali's cultural and intellectual achievements, Ghana's dominance over trade routes and centralized administration, and Songhay's military might and religious tolerance all had a lasting impression on the area and beyond. These empires provide crucial illustrations of the intricate and varied political and cultural transformations that occurred in West Africa at this time.
Discussion 2
    The...