From the World Socialist Web Site, this is a review of Harvard professor Henry Gates' book, "Wonders of the African World." It includes interesting details of Gates' attempts to piece together a view of precolonial African history. (4...

Prior to European contact, western Africa's powerful kingdoms supported the arts, technology, and thriving economies. Read about the areas from which slaves were transported before the transatlantic trade began.

The story of the Songhay Empire is discussed on this website. From its origins, to its expansion under the rule of Sonni Ali the Great, to its height in power under Mohammed Ture, and finally to the collapse of the empire - it is all...

Scroll down to the section on Mansa Musa for an overview of the history of Mansa Musa?s reign over Mali from 1312-1337.

Historical background of the reasons for European exploration of Africa. Tutorial Links to further European trade and exploration.