The Rise and Fall of the Mali Empire

Destiny Joseph
@josephdestiny597391
1 day ago

One of the most powerful empires that existed in Africa was thr Mali Empire founded by Sundiata Keita who was a renowned warrior king. This powerful kingdom founded in the 13th and 17th century covered Senegal, the Gambia, Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea and parts of Ghana.

What give this empire so much power was the abundance of resources like gold and textiles. The empire strategically dominated all major routes in the sub-saharan and meditaranean region of West Africa.

Here's a quick run down of the rise and fall of the Mali empire.

1. The Mali empire was founded by Sundiata Keita after defeating the Sosso Empire in the Battle of Kirina.

2. Sundiata Keita expands the Mali Empire through conquest, gaining control over the gold and salt trade routes and establishing a capital at Niani.

3. In 1307, Mansa Musa becomes king of the Mali Empire, ushering in a period of great prosperity and expansion.

4. In 1324, Mansa Musa embarks on a pilgrimage to Mecca, bringing with him a large entourage and vast amounts of gold. His pilgrimage earns him fame throughout the Islamic world and establishes Mali as a major center of trade and scholarship

5. 1337-1374: Reign of Mansa Suleyman, who continues the expansion of the Mali Empire and establishes Timbuktu as a center of Islamic scholarship and learning.

6. In 1380, Mali begins to decline after the death of Mansa Suleyman. Internal conflicts, rebellions, and attacks by neighbouring states weaken the empire.

7. From 1464 to 1492, the reign of Sunni Ali Ber, founder of the Songhai Empire, eventually conquers and absorbs the Mali Empire.

8. In 1591, the Moroccan invasion of the Songhai Empire brought an end of the Mali Empire and the beginning of the era of European colonialism in West Africa.

Copied From: Black History Month

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