Mansa Musa

• Who is considered one of the richest people in history?

  Mansa Musa
• What title was Mansa Musa known by?

  The King of Kings
• In which century did Mansa Musa rule the Mali Empire?

  14th century CE
• What was one significant action Mansa Musa took to enhance his empire?

  He strategically annexed the city of Timbuktu
• How did Mansa Musa's actions impact the size of the Mali Empire?

  He gained control over important trade routes, increasing its size
• What natural resources were abundant in the Mali Empire during Mansa Musa's reign?

  Gold and salt
• What event in 1324 showcased Mansa Musa's wealth?

  His pilgrimage to Mecca
• What was notable about the caravan Mansa Musa took on his pilgrimage?

  It stretched as far as the eye could see
• How did chroniclers describe Mansa Musa's pilgrimage entourage?

  As tens of thousands of soldiers, civilians, and slaves
• What did Mansa Musa carry with him during his pilgrimage?

  Gold bars
• What impact did Mansa Musa's spending have on the regional economy?

  It may have destabilized the economy, causing mass inflation
• How long did Mansa Musa's pilgrimage reportedly take?

  Over a year
• What was the significance of the 1375 Catalan Atlas in relation to Mansa Musa?

  It depicted him holding a scepter and a gleaming gold nugget
• How did Mansa Musa contribute to the cultural development of Timbuktu?

  He had the great Djinguereber Mosque built and established a major university
• What was the status of Timbuktu before Mansa Musa's annexation?

  It was already a center of religion and learning
• What types of institutions flourished under Mansa Musa's rule?

  Schools and mosques
• What legacy did Mansa Musa leave behind in Mali?

  His rich legacy persisted for generations, with mausoleums, libraries, and mosques
• What were the key components of Mansa Musa's legacy?

  • Control over trade routes
  • Cultural and educational advancements in Timbuktu
  • Construction of the Djinguereber Mosque
  • Establishment of a major university
  • Urbanization of the Mali Empire
• How did Mansa Musa's pilgrimage influence perceptions of the Mali Empire?

  • Elevated Mali's status to near legendary
  • Spread tales of wealth across the Mediterranean
  • Included in the 1375 Catalan Atlas