Lesson 6: Trekking to Timbuktu: The Search for Timbuktu (Teacher Version)
After a rich history as a center of commerce and scholarship, the West African city of Timbuktu began a period of decline in the 16th century. In time, like the other major centers along the overland routes of West Africa, Timbuktu was forgotten. In later centuries, stories about these remote "lost cities" piqued the curiosity of many Europeans. Certain intrepid adventurers set out to rediscover them.
Guiding Questions
What factors contributed to the decline of Timbuktu?
What obstacles made a journey to Timbuktu very difficult?
What myths and misconceptions about the city were held by Europeans?
Learning Objectives
Analyze the reasons for the decline and fall of Timbuktu.
Examine the causes and effects of the views held by Europeans about Timbuktu.
Analyze the topography and consequences of traveling to Timbuktu.
Evaluate the impact of the arrival of Europeans on Timbuktu.