Final answer:
The empires that arose in western Africa include the Ghana Empire, the Mali Empire, and the Songhai Empire.
Step-by-step explanation:
The empires that arose in western Africa include the Ghana Empire (790-1076 C.E.), the Mali Empire (1230-1600 C.E.), and the Songhai Empire. The Ghana Empire was known for its power and wealth, while the Mali Empire, which was even larger, had major mining operations including gold, copper, and salt. The Mali Empire also traded with the north and converted to Islam, contributing to its wealth. The Songhai Empire, arising from parts of the Mali Empire, extended over an area the size of Western Europe.