The development of cities was a direct result of the distribution of goods in Africa. The distribution of goods for trading involved travelling across the Sahara from the North African coast, Europe, to the Levant. This peak of trade which extended from the 8th century until the early 17th century, led to the process of urbanization as well as the development of towns that connected with different trade routes. The Trans-Saharan trade motivated territorial expansion, since there was a great need for establishing settlements where transactions as well as businesses were promoted. These economic activities increased urbanization, from villages to walled cities and commercial centers.
