Some of history’s wealthiest kingdoms controlled enormous trade networks, valuable resources, and advanced cities that rivaled or surpassed the power of better-known civilizations.
1. The Mali Empire
At its height in the 14th century, the Mali Empire was one of the richest states in the world.
Its wealth came from vast supplies of gold and control of important trade routes across West Africa. The famous pilgrimage of Emperor Mansa Musa to Mecca displayed Mali’s enormous riches and made the empire known far beyond Africa.
2. The Majapahit Empire
Centered in modern-day Indonesia, the Majapahit Empire dominated much of Southeast Asia during the 13th and 14th centuries.
Its power came from maritime trade, controlling important shipping routes between China, India, and the islands of Southeast Asia. Its capital became a major center of culture, politics, and commerce.
3. The Kingdom of Aksum
Located in present-day Ethiopia and Eritrea, Aksum became one of the most powerful trading kingdoms of the ancient world.
Between roughly the 1st and 7th centuries, it controlled Red Sea trade routes and produced its own coins, a sign of its economic strength and sophistication.
4. The Srivijaya Empire
For centuries, Srivijaya controlled key maritime routes through Southeast Asia.
Its location near the Strait of Malacca allowed it to profit from the movement of goods between China, India, and the Middle East, making it one of the region’s wealthiest powers.
5. The Kingdom of Kush
The Kingdom of Kush, located south of Egypt in modern Sudan, became wealthy through gold mining, agriculture, and trade.
At one point, Kush conquered Egypt and ruled as the 25th Dynasty, leaving behind pyramids and monuments that still survive today.
6. The Chola Empire
The Chola Empire of southern India became a major naval and trading power between the 9th and 13th centuries.
Its ships traveled across the Indian Ocean, connecting trade networks across Asia while its rulers built enormous temples that demonstrated the empire’s wealth and influence.