Nestled in West Africa, between the Sahara and the fertile region of the Sudan, the Ghana Empire thrived from the 9th to the 13th century. The Empire s wealth stemmed from its key role in the lucrative gold-salt trade. Traders crossed the Sahara desert, exchanging salt from the north for the gold that was abundant in the south. The Ghana Empire was known for its advanced system of administration. The king, who was viewed as divine, controlled the gold supply, maintaining economic stability. The Empire was organized into provinces, each headed by a governor, ensuring smooth governance. However, the Empire s decline remains a mystery. Historians believe that internal conflicts, over-farming, and attacks from outsiders played a role. The once prosperous Ghana Empire slowly crumbled, leaving behind an intriguing historical legacy for us to learn from.