Mansa Musa

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The Mali Empire lasted from 700 AD to 1600 AD which consisted of the Ghana Empire (700-1100 AD), Mali Empire (800-1550 AD), and the Songhay Empire (1300-1600 AD). At the peak of the Malian Empire it stretched from the east coast to the middle of Niger. The empire was founded by Sundiata Keita and was most well-known for its great wealth for the time. One such example is Mansa Musa who was the wealthiest person during his time and is believed to be the wealthiest person ever. He got his wealth from harvesting salt, selling slaves and mining for gold. Mansa Musa was emperor of the Mali Empire from 1312 till 1337. He became ruler after the death of his previous predecessor Abu-Bakr II. In 1324 twelve years after his reign as king he began a pilgrimage to Mecca. When going to Mecca he brought thousands of escorts with him and about 80 camels worth of gold, or two tons worth. Within the thousands he brought wives, consorts, and as many as 12,000 slaves. And with the gold Mansa gave some of it to the poor and the rest he gave it for tribute at Mecca. When coming back from his trip he brought back scholars, bureaucrats, and architects. One of the architects he brought back designed the Mosque Djinguereber. The pilgrimage he did boosted education adding libraries and universities. Many other Islamic leaders and dignitaries brought
He was a pivotal part of the Mali Empire which lasted for many centuries. He was able to spread Islam and improve commerce in his area. With the trade routes that have been used in all of Africa, Mansa made his Empire the wealthiest in the world. With Timbuktu in the empire The Mali Empire was at its most profitable and powerful. When the great king died that is when the kingdom started to decline and fall. And in later years taken over by the Songhay Empire. Today sub-Saharan Africa is bonded by its rich culture, religion, and

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