Map West Africa

Your Guides I’m Olayinka and this is my best friend Baboo. We’re going to show you around our home, West Africa!

In West African culture, history is very important. Our parents and grandparents pass down stories to us, and we keep them alive by passing them down to future generations. The history of my region has been passed down to me by family. One day, I’ll tell these stories to my children, but for now, I’ll share them with you and Baboo.

Ancient Times: Rich Kingdoms

West Africa is ruled by three rich kingdoms: Ghana, Mali and Songhai. They make their wealth by trading natural resources, like gold and salt, to other regions of the world.

Mid 1400s: Slave Trade Begins

European and North American traders take kidnapped West African men and women to the Americas and Europe on ships and sell them as slaves. This is a sad time West Africans will never forget.

Early 1800s: Slave Trade Ends

Slavery becomes illegal in Europe and the Americas and the West African slave trade ends.

Late 1800s: Scramble for Africa

European countries realize West Africa is rich in natural resources. They begin to take over West African countries, sometimes by using violence. The race to control West Africa is called the “Scramble for Africa.”

1847: A Free Country

Liberia becomes a new country created by freed American slaves. It is the only place in West Africa that isn’t ruled by a European power. Liberians are very proud of their new country.

Mid 1900s: Independence

After the Second World War, more and more West African countries start becoming independent from their European rulers. Ghana leads the way in 1957.

1960 to Present: Civil War

Independent West African governments are really new, and they still have a lot to learn. Some governments are not honest and don’t always do what’s right for the people. This causes many civil wars, during which a lot of innocent people die.