- The majority of slaves taken during the transatlantic slave trade came from West Africa.
- The region became a major source of slaves due to its proximity to Europe and the presence of well-established trade networks.
- Major slave-trading regions included Senegambia, Sierra Leone, the Gold Coast, the Bight of Benin, and the Bight of Biafra.
2. Central Africa:
- Central African regions such as the Congo Basin and Angola were also significant sources of slaves.
- These areas were known for their dense populations and the availability of skilled laborers, including blacksmiths and farmers.
3. East Africa:
- East Africa, including regions like Mozambique and Zanzibar, was involved in the slave trade to a lesser extent compared to West and Central Africa.
- Slaves from this region were often transported to the Indian Ocean and the Middle East.
4. Madagascar:
- The island of Madagascar was also a source of slaves, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries.
- Slaves from Madagascar were often taken to the French colony of Mauritius and other Indian Ocean islands.
It's important to note that the slave trade was a complex and multifaceted process that involved various African kingdoms and polities, European slave traders, and the participation of African elites and merchants. The involvement of different regions in the slave trade fluctuated over time due to factors such as political dynamics, economic conditions, and the rise or decline of specific trade routes and markets.