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Ships used to capture slaves. Buying cargo and spending months traveling to different parts of the coast. Captives often were poor in health because and mental abuse. Some had to lie and crowd because of the cramped space. They suffered on the ship when conditions were appalling. Slaves were packed below deck with leg chains to secure them together. Men were kept in separate vaults from the women and children and sometimes allowed freedom of movement on deck. It was mostly foul, horrifying smells and getting sea sick or fever, small pox and other disease lasting 2 months or more. The passengers were sometimes forced to exercise on deck and fed two meals daily. Some were forced fed if they refused to eat.

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They captured Africans in raids along the coast. They bought the most from local African dealers. Dealers had sophisticated networks of trade. Most African slaves were captured in battle or kidnappings and sold into slavery for debt and punishment. Slave ships often arrived from Europe filled with goods for trade. Wide variety of exchange and barter for serious business, including firearms, beads and textiles.

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Trade is very important to their economy. Trade is based on buying and selling of goods and services. The first traders were the Portuguese in the 15th century. After that the Dutch, British, French and Scandinavians soon followed. Gold, Ivory and Spices were the main attractions.

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Showing a vibrant community of civilizations.

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Mostly skilled in medicine, mathematics and astronomy. Some were paid for these types of skills. But some people make money by selling homed goods. People would even take onto painting and made nice items in bronze, ivory, gold and terracotta.