The Ghana Empire
Because of all the trade that occurred in the area of Ghana, the rulers grew rich by taxing the goods and by the 700's Ghana was a kingdom. The people that lived there were called the "Soninke" but called their ruler "Ghana" which was where the name came from. The kingdom was growing quickly, and by the 800's it had become an empire.
Ghana's king controlled trade and had a large army. Gold dust was allowed in the market place, but only the king could have gold nuggets. This way, the king limited the supply of gold to keep its price from falling. The leader also had many other rules. Religious leader, chief judge, and military commander. He had lots of people under him and could call upon his army. He hired mayors, civil servants, counselors, and ministers to help him, but he held all the power.
Ghana's king controlled trade and had a large army. Gold dust was allowed in the market place, but only the king could have gold nuggets. This way, the king limited the supply of gold to keep its price from falling. The leader also had many other rules. Religious leader, chief judge, and military commander. He had lots of people under him and could call upon his army. He hired mayors, civil servants, counselors, and ministers to help him, but he held all the power.
The king was in charge of the court and punishment. The king assembled his court everyday and heard peoples complaints. Loud drums told people the court was meeting and it was time to complain. The king listened to all conflicts and gave his judgement. Most conflicts were resolved peacefully, unless there was crime involved. The criminal involved was giving a drink of sour wood and water. If he vomited he was innocent. If he did not then he was declared guilty and punished. The same thing happened for conquered territories. In territories were taxes were paid, the king let the people be independent, but ruled harshly for those who defied.