Sub-saharan africa

Definition

The region of Africa south of the Sahara Desert, encompassing a wide diversity of cultures, languages, and ecosystems. Sub-Saharan Africa includes ancient kingdoms like Mali and Great Zimbabwe, experienced the devastating effects of the slave trade and European colonialism, and underwent widespread decolonization in the mid-20th century.

Examples

  • The Kingdom of Mali, under Mansa Musa, was one of the wealthiest empires in world history
  • European powers carved up Africa at the Berlin Conference of 1884–1885
  • Nigeria is Sub-Saharan Africa's most populous country and largest economy
Key Fact

There are 46 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, making it one of the most politically diverse regions on Earth.

Related Terms

Trans-saharan trade Decolonization Imperialism North africa

Study This Concept

Practice Sub-Saharan Africa with free review games in these units:

World Geography Unit 5: Africa