Mali Empire: History and Society

The Mali Empire, established in the 13th century in West Africa, was a powerful and influential empire known for its wealth, trade, and cultural achievements. Founded by Sundiata Keita, it expanded under his leadership and that of Mansa Musa, who brought immense wealth and Islamic learning to the region. The empire's prosperity was largely due to its control of trans-Saharan trade routes, dealing in gold, salt, and other goods. Despite its success, the empire faced internal and external challenges, including conflicts with the Mosi kingdoms and the rise of the Songhai Empire, leading to its decline. The Mali Empire left a lasting legacy in African history, contributing to the spread of Islam and cultural development in the region.

What was a key factor in the Mali Empire's success in Trans-Saharan trade?

• Its alliance with European traders

• Its control over gold and salt trade routes

• Its advanced naval fleet

• Its location near the Nile River

Who was the legendary leader associated with the founding of the Mali Empire?

• Mansa Musa

• King Sumaro Kante

• Soni Ali

• Sundiata Keita

What significant event is Mansa Musa known for during his reign?

• The invention of a new trade route

• The construction of the Great Wall of Mali

• The defeat of the Songhai Empire

• A pilgrimage to Mecca with vast gold distribution

Which city became a central hub of Islamic learning under Mansa Musa?

• Gao

• Niani

• Djenne

• Timbuktu

What role did griots play in Malian society?

• They were military leaders

• They were traders

• They were religious leaders

• They were storytellers and historians

How was Malian society structured?

• It was a feudal system

• It was a caste-based society

• It was a matriarchy

• It was a democracy

What was a major challenge faced by the Mali Empire during its existence?

• Invasion by European powers

• Frequent droughts

• Conflicts with the Mosi kingdoms

• Lack of natural resources

Which empire began to challenge Mali's rule in the 14th and 15th centuries?

• The Egyptian Empire

• The Songhai Empire

• The Roman Empire

• The Ghana Empire

What was a significant factor in the decline of the Mali Empire?

• The rise of the Songhai Empire

• A devastating plague

• A volcanic eruption

• A major earthquake

What legacy did the Mali Empire leave in West Africa?

• The development of a unique architectural style

• The spread of Islam and cultural traditions

• The invention of the wheel

• The introduction of Christianity