History of Oceania

What did the Kongo kingdom trade?

The Kongo kingdom was a powerful African state that existed in the region that is now Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Republic of Congo from the 14th to the 19th centuries. The Kongo kingdom was a major center of trade and commerce, and its economy was based on the export of valuable commodities such as slaves, ivory, copper, and textiles.

Slavery was a major part of the Kongo kingdom's economy. The kingdom was a major source of slaves for the Portuguese, who were involved in the Atlantic slave trade. The Kongo kingdom also sold slaves to other African kingdoms and empires.

Ivory was another important export of the Kongo kingdom. Elephants were abundant in the region, and their tusks were highly valued for use in jewelry, furniture, and other luxury items. The Kongo kingdom also exported copper, which was used for making tools, weapons, and other metal goods.

Textiles were another important export of the Kongo kingdom. The kingdom was known for its production of high-quality cotton cloth, which was used for clothing, bedding, and other purposes. The Kongo kingdom also exported other types of textiles, such as silk and wool.

In addition to these major exports, the Kongo kingdom also traded in other goods such as gold, silver, salt, and spices. The kingdom was a major center of trade and commerce, and its economy was based on the export of valuable commodities.