What is the history of the Sahara's trade routes?

The Sahara is the world's largest desert, stretching over 9 million square kilometers. The region has been inhabited by humans for tens of thousands of years, and trade has been an integral part of the region's history. The discovery of gold, ivory, salt, and other valuable resources led to the development of trade routes across the Sahara, connecting West Africa to the Mediterranean coast.

The trans-Saharan trade routes were established in the 8th century AD by Arab traders who were searching for new markets for their goods. The trade network linked African kingdoms, such as Ghana, Mali, and Songhai, with merchants from the North, such as Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt. The trade routes stretched over thousands of kilometers, crossing the Sahara desert, and merchants had to navigate through difficult terrain, harsh weather conditions, and bandit attacks.

The trade in gold was particularly lucrative, and the kingdom of Ghana became a major supplier. Traders would exchange gold for salt, which was essential for preserving food and seasoning meals. Ivory, slaves, and textiles were also traded across the Sahara, and cities such as Timbuktu, Gao, and Djenné became important centers of commerce and learning.

The trans-Saharan trade routes declined in the 16th century due to the rise of European maritime trade, which provided safer and more efficient alternatives. However, the legacy of these trade routes is still visible today, with many of the traditional caravan routes and trading posts still standing.