How were the west African kingdoms involved in slavery?

West African kingdoms played a significant role in the transatlantic slave trade, engaging in the capture, trade, and sale of enslaved individuals. Local leaders often raided neighboring communities to obtain slaves or traded prisoners of war, exchanging them with European traders for goods such as firearms, textiles, and alcohol. This involvement not only facilitated the expansion of the slave trade but also contributed to the wealth and power of certain kingdoms, such as the Ashanti and Dahomey. However, this practice had devastating effects on society, leading to long-lasting social and economic disruptions.