Final answer:
The Mali Empire, the Songhai Empire, and the Benin Empire are three states that emerged south of the Sahara due to trans-Saharan trade routes and the spread of Islam.
Step-by-step explanation:
Three states that were formed south of Sahara as a result of trade networks and Islamic influence include the Mali Empire, the Songhai Empire, and the Benin Empire. The Mali Empire unified trade routes across the Sahara, leveraging its control of the goldfields to prosper and becoming renowned for centers like Timbuktu and Djenné, both hubs of Islamic scholarship.
The Songhai Empire, rising out of the weakening Mali Empire, expanded to become larger than Western Europe and was instrumental in establishing extensive trade routes. The Benin Empire also emerged in the mid-1400s, known for expanding territory and creating unique cities.
The diffusion of Islamic customs, shared social bonds, and trust strengthened by a common language and religious practices underpinned the success of these trading empires. As commerce expanded, so did the influence of Islam, facilitating a network of believers who contributed to the increased trust and efficiency in trade across great distances.