Western Africa

Western Africa was often isolated from the development of the world. Prior to the Renaissance, the land was unknown and the people were left to develop their own identity. Much of life was driven by your family and ethnic group. Isolation would not last forever. People crossing the vast Sahara Desert o the backs of camels bring religion, language and customs to the region. The trade routes involving gold, salt, and slaves brings wealth and power to those controlling the trade. The arrival of the Europeans brings imperialism and nationalism, which was often counter-cultural to the people. We will answer the following essential questions:

Essential Question

• Why do countries colonize?

Unit Specific Questions

• What impact did the development of Western Africa have on Africa and the World?

• How did European imperialism contribute to the development of Western Africa?

• What is the current state of Western African nations?