Islam, Archaeology and History: Gao Region (Mali) ca. AD 900 - 1250

Gao in Mali is situated near the northern bend of the Niger river in the western Sahel; it was of prime importance in the spread of Islam and trans-Saharan contacts and trade. This volume reviews the results of archaeological survey and excavation in the region, including the author's own fieldwork; the spread of Islam is considered from the archaeological evidence and for its effect on the political and social structures of the region.