Why was the Senegambia region particularly significant during the transatlantic slave trade?

The Senegambia region held substantial significance during the transatlantic slave trade primarily because it produced skilled laborers, particularly in agriculture. This area, encompassing parts of modern Senegal and The Gambia, was known for its rich agricultural practices and diverse cultivation, including rice, millet, and other crops. The region's population included individuals who possessed valuable skills in farming, which made them highly sought after by European traders looking to satisfy labor demands in plantations across the Americas.

The demand for such skilled laborers contributed to the region's prominence in the slave trade, as many Europeans recognized the economic potential of enslaved individuals who were already adept at agricultural practices. The ability of these laborers to adapt to and thrive in the specific agricultural environments of the Americas played a crucial role in the profitability of plantations, thus reinforcing the Senegambia region's importance during this historical period.