African+Exploration

= African Exploration  =

Mansa Musa
Mansa Musa was the ruler of one of the richest African empires of the 14th century, Mali. Mansa Musa controlled the exportation of two of Mali's key commodities - salt and gold. This wealthy ruler alerted the European explorers looking for gold to potential riches in Africa, when he made his pilgramage to Mecca with 80 camels loaded with gold.



The "Sea of Darkness"
In the 15th century, exploration of Africa flourished, after the myth that the devil that waited beyond Cape Bojador in the "sea of darkness" for the foolhardy sailors, was disproved. Under the guidance of Prince Henry the navigator, by 1488 Portugese ships had entered the Cape of Good Hope which led the way into the Indian Ocean.

Trading with the Portuguese
The Portuguese were intent on establishing trading posts along the coasts of Africa. They had a stong desire to obtain more gold, which Mansa Musa proved was available. The Portuguese were also extremely pleased when ivory and slaves were added to the mix.