Mali Empire

West Africa · medieval kingdoms · history · gold

Founded by Sundiata Keita. A brilliant military leader named Sundiata Keita started the Mali Empire around 1235. He built it from a small kingdom into a massive power that stretched across West Africa.

Mansa Musa's legendary wealth. The most famous Mali ruler was Mansa Musa, whose riches became legendary across the world. He was so wealthy that gold from Mali influenced the value of gold in distant countries.

Spread language and culture. Mali was so powerful and influential that its language, laws, and customs spread throughout West Africa and shaped how other kingdoms governed themselves.

Ruled for 375 years. The Mali Empire lasted from around 1235 to 1610, making it one of the longest lasting kingdoms in African history.

Center of learning. Mali became famous for its universities and scholars, with the city of Timbuktu becoming a major center of Islamic learning and book preservation.