The trans-Saharan caravan trade became established around the 4th century, connecting peoples across the forest, savanna, Sahel, and Sahara regions. While Ghana played a significant early role, it was not solely built by trans-Saharan trade. The trade flourished particularly during the Mali and Songhai Empires from the 14th to 16th centuries. Trade routes, categorized into North-South, West-East, and Southern routes, utilized camels predominantly for transport across vast distances. Major trade centers like Fez, Marrakesh, Timbuktu, and Djenné facilitated the exchange of salt from North Africa for gold, kola nuts, and other products from West Africa. This trade network was crucial for economic prosperity, cultural exchange, and political influence in the region from 500 AD to 1590 AD, marking a pivotal era in African history.