The Empire of Mali was founded by Sundiata Keita in the thirteenth century and became one of the greatest states in West African history.
Rise and Expansion
Mali expanded through military victories, alliances and control of important gold-producing and trading regions. Its territory covered parts of the upper Niger basin and surrounding areas.
Administration and Economy
The mansa or emperor governed with the help of officials and provincial leaders. Agriculture, gold, salt, trade and taxation supported the empire.
Cultural Achievements
- Timbuktu and other towns became centres of Islamic learning.
- Architecture, manuscripts and scholarship flourished.
- Trade linked Mali with North Africa and the wider Islamic world.
Decline
Succession disputes, provincial rebellions, attacks by neighbours and the weakening of central authority contributed to Mali’s decline.
