Mali Empire: Challenges and Achievements

The Mali Empire was a powerful West African empire known for its wealth, trade, and cultural achievements. Founded by Sundiata Keita, it reached its peak under Mansa Musa, who expanded its influence and wealth through trade and his famous pilgrimage to Mecca. The empire's economy was based on gold and trans-Saharan trade routes. Timbuktu became a center of Islamic learning. Despite its achievements, the empire declined due to political instability, economic issues, and external pressures.

Who was the founder of the Mali Empire?

• Mansa Musa

• Sundiata Keita

• Askia the Great

• Sunni Ali

What was Mansa Musa famous for?

• Conquering Europe

• Inventing the compass

• Building the Great Wall

• His pilgrimage to Mecca

Which city did Mansa Musa establish as a center of Islamic learning?

• Marrakech

• Fez

• Timbuktu

• Cairo

What was the primary source of wealth for the Mali Empire?

• Silk production

• Spice trade

• Oil reserves

• Gold trade

Which trade routes were crucial to the Mali Empire's economy?

• Silk Road

• Trans-Saharan trade routes

• Spice Route

• Amber Road

What was the role of the king in the Mali Empire's social hierarchy?

• A merchant leader

• A military general

• A divine ruler with political and religious authority

• A ceremonial figure

Which group was at the bottom of the Mali Empire's social hierarchy?

• Warriors

• Commoners

• Slaves

• Nobility

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

• Invention of the printing press

• Political instability

• Rise of the Roman Empire

• Discovery of new continents

Which empire emerged as a rival to the Mali Empire in the 15th century?

• Mongol Empire

• Roman Empire

• Songhai Empire

• Ottoman Empire

What was one of the challenges faced by the Mali Empire in the 16th century?

• Invasion by the Vikings

• Industrial Revolution

• Rise of Islamic fundamentalism

• Discovery of America