Preface and Acknowledgments
Introduction
Western Africa: The Environmental Setting
Language Groups and Social Organizations
The Development of Western African Commercial Networks: An Overview
Mande Caravan Routes Linking Senegambia, the Upper Guinea Coast, and the Malaguetta Coast
Biafada-Sapi, Banyun-Bak, and Kruan Coastwise and Riverine Networks
The Era of Mandekalu Horse Warriors and State Building
European Voyages of Reconnaissance and the Inauguration of New Trading Relationships
The Cabo Verde Archipelago- Western Africa Nexus
African Landlords and Competing European and Cabo Verdean Strangers, c. 1500-c. 1630
Senegambia and the Banyun-Bak Commercial Sphere
The Biafada-Sapi and Kruan Trade Networks
Isohyets and Ecological Zones
A Note on Sources