How Were Griots Important in the History of West Africa?

Some of what we know about the civilizations of West Africa comes to us from stories and information passed down by griots, or storytellers. The griot was an important part of West African civilizations. 

What can be learned from a Modern Day Griot?

Historian Career Task
You have been hired by a textbook company to create a diagram showing the layout of the capital city of Ghana during the medieval period.  Your diagram should show the location of different structures and places in the city. You should use clear symbols and a key to help the student viewer to understand the information presented.  Also use labeling when helpful.

Oral Tradition and Storytelling in Ghana

Some people and events in a legend might be unverifiable. However, a legend can still contain historical facts that can be used to piece together an account of the past. As you read "The Legend of Ouagadou-Bida," look for examples of people, events, and places that could be verified. In particular, look for possible evidence that could be used in your diagram of the city of Ghana.

"The City of Ghana" by Al-Bakri
Now you will read and analyze a primary source by Al-Bakri. Remember, in order to determine a source's reliability, you must consider:

• Sourcing: What do we know about the author that would make him or her an accurate source of information?
• Bias: Is the author using the language of opinion or mostly presenting facts?
• Corroboration: Are there other documents that corroborate the evidence in this document? Do other documents contradict this source?

The Salt-Gold Trade in Ghana

Ghana Review

Although the kingdom of Ghana produced neither salt nor gold, its location in the center of the trade route made it an excellent trading location for people from the north and south. The leaders of Ghana profited from the trade by charging a tax from the salt and gold traders.

Today you will learn more about the salt-gold trade and how it was carried out. Please open and complete The Salt-Gold Trade document in your Social Studies folder.
Quick Ghana Review

Mining for Salt
Salt mining continues in the Sahara Desert today. How is the salt excavated? What are the challenges of salt mining and trading? Please respond in the comment box below.



Use Google slides to create a presentation that educates the viewer about how salt and gold were traded using the "silent barter" process. Be sure to answer these questions in your presentation.

Slide One:  "Silent Barter in Medieval Ghana"
                

Slide Two: Where did the salt come from? Why was salt so valuable? 


Slide Three: Where did the gold come from? Why did people want gold?


Slide Four: Where did the salt and gold traders meet to conduct their trade? What did the Kingdom of Ghana provide for the traders?


Slide Five: What were the specific procedures for trading?


Slide Six: How did Ghana benefit from the trade?


Be sure to use images on each slide that assist the view and support the information presented.

Usa imagenes en cada parte de su presentacion.