Glossary

5.2 Rise of the Mali Empire and its expansion

5 min read•july 31, 2024

The Mali Empire rose to power in the 13th century, following the decline of Ghana. Founded by , it quickly became a dominant force in West Africa through military conquests and control of trade routes.

Mali's success stemmed from its strategic location, agricultural productivity, and strong military. The empire's adoption of Islam and effective administration allowed it to expand its influence, becoming a center of wealth, learning, and culture in medieval Africa.

Origins of the Mali Empire

The Emergence of the Mali Empire

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  • The Mali Empire emerged in the early 13th century CE in the western Sudan region of West Africa, following the decline of the Ghana Empire
  • The empire was founded by Sundiata Keita, who was born around 1217 CE into the Keita clan of the Mandinka people
  • The Mandinka people were a West African ethnic group known for their skilled warriors and traders

Sundiata Keita's Rise to Power

  • According to the , an oral tradition recounting his life, Sundiata overcame physical disabilities and exile to become a skilled warrior and leader
  • Sundiata united the Mandinka people and led a coalition of West African states to defeat the Sosso king Soumaoro Kanté at the in 1235 CE, marking the beginning of the Mali Empire
  • As the first mansa (king) of the Mali Empire, Sundiata established a strong central government, developed a powerful army, and expanded the empire's territory through military conquests and alliances
  • Sundiata's reign lasted from approximately 1235 CE until his death in 1255 CE, during which time he laid the foundation for the Mali Empire's future prosperity and expansion

Factors in Mali's Expansion

Strategic Location and Trade

  • The Mali Empire's strategic location along the routes allowed it to control and tax the lucrative gold, salt, and slave trades, providing a significant source of wealth and power
  • The empire's capital, , was located near the gold fields of Bure, which provided access to valuable resources
  • The Mali Empire's control over trade routes connecting West Africa to the Mediterranean world (Silk Roads) facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and culture

Agricultural Productivity and Urban Development

  • The empire's agricultural productivity, particularly in the valley, supported a large population and enabled the development of urban centers
  • The fertile floodplains of the Niger River allowed for the cultivation of crops such as rice, millet, and sorghum, which formed the basis of the empire's economy
  • The surplus agricultural production supported the growth of cities such as , , and , which became important centers of trade, learning, and culture

Military Strength and Expansion

  • The Mali Empire's strong military, equipped with iron weapons and horses, allowed it to conquer neighboring states and maintain control over its vast territory
  • The empire's army, known as the Mandekalu, was composed of professional soldiers and conscripted warriors from conquered territories
  • The Mali Empire's expansion reached its peak under the reign of (1312-1337 CE), who extended the empire's borders to include much of modern-day Mali, Senegal, Gambia, Guinea, Niger, and Burkina Faso

Effective Administration and Islamic Influence

  • The empire's leaders, including Sundiata Keita and his successors, implemented effective administrative systems, including the appointment of provincial governors and the establishment of a system of justice based on Islamic law
  • The adoption of Islam by the Mali rulers, particularly during the reign of Mansa Musa (1312-1337 CE), strengthened ties with Muslim trading partners and facilitated the spread of Islamic culture and learning throughout the empire
  • The Mali Empire's embrace of Islam attracted scholars and artisans from across the Islamic world, contributing to the empire's cultural and intellectual flourishing

Mali's Political Structure

Central Authority and Royal Administration

  • The Mali Empire was governed by a powerful central authority, with the mansa (king) holding supreme political, military, and judicial power
  • The mansa was advised by a council of nobles and officials, including the griot (oral historian and advisor), the farba (military commander), and the dyamani-tigui (minister of finance)
  • The mansa's court also included Islamic scholars, who provided guidance on religious and legal matters

Provincial Governance and Tax Collection

  • The empire was divided into provinces, each governed by a farba or a member of the royal family appointed by the mansa
  • Provincial governors were responsible for maintaining order, collecting taxes, and providing military support to the mansa when needed
  • The Mali Empire's tax system included taxes on trade, agriculture, and mining, which provided a significant source of revenue for the central government
  • The Mali Empire had a complex system of laws and justice, influenced by traditional African customs and Islamic law
  • The mansa served as the supreme judge, with the power to appoint judges and hear appeals
  • Local disputes were often resolved through the intervention of village elders or Islamic scholars
  • The empire's legal system also included a system of trial by ordeal, in which the accused were subjected to physical tests to determine their guilt or innocence

Cultural Achievements of Mali

Centers of Learning and Scholarship

  • The Mali Empire was renowned for its wealth, which attracted scholars, artisans, and merchants from across the Islamic world
  • Timbuktu, a major center of trade and learning in the Mali Empire, was home to one of the world's first universities, the , which housed thousands of students and one of the largest libraries in the Islamic world
  • The city of Djenné was also an important center of Islamic learning, known for its impressive mosque and Islamic schools (madrasas)

Mansa Musa's Pilgrimage and Wealth

  • Mansa Musa's famous pilgrimage to Mecca in 1324-1325 CE showcased the empire's wealth and power, and his generous gifts of gold caused inflation in the regions he visited
  • Mansa Musa's pilgrimage also established diplomatic ties with other Muslim rulers and enhanced the Mali Empire's reputation in the Islamic world
  • The Mali Empire's wealth was derived from its control over the trans-Saharan , as well as its agricultural productivity and trade in other commodities (salt, copper, slaves)

Patronage of Islamic Culture and Art

  • The Mali Empire was known for its patronage of , with the mansa sponsoring the construction of mosques and madrasas (Islamic schools) throughout the empire
  • The empire's rulers also commissioned the production of Islamic manuscripts, which contributed to the spread of Islamic learning and culture in West Africa
  • The Mali Empire's artistic achievements included intricate gold jewelry, textiles, and sculptures, which were highly prized throughout the Islamic world
  • The empire's artisans were known for their skill in metalworking, particularly in the production of gold and copper ornaments and figurines

Oral Traditions and Griots

  • Griots, or jalis, served as oral historians, advisors, and entertainers in the Mali Empire, preserving the empire's history, legends, and cultural traditions through music and storytelling
  • The Epic of Sundiata, which recounts the life and deeds of the empire's founder, is one of the most famous examples of the Mali Empire's oral tradition
  • Griots also played an important role in the Mali Empire's political system, serving as advisors to the mansa and other officials, and using their influence to shape public opinion and maintain social order

Key Terms to Review (21)

Battle of Kirina: The Battle of Kirina was a significant military confrontation that took place around 1235, marking the beginning of the rise of the Mali Empire. This battle pitted the forces of Sundiata Keita, the founder of the Mali Empire, against the powerful Sosso king, Soumaoro Kanté. The victory of Sundiata and his troops was pivotal as it not only solidified his control over the region but also laid the foundation for the expansion of the Mali Empire, making it one of the dominant powers in West Africa during its time.
Cavalry tactics: Cavalry tactics refer to military strategies and maneuvers that involve mounted troops, typically on horseback, to enhance mobility and combat effectiveness on the battlefield. These tactics were crucial in the rise of powerful empires, allowing for rapid troop movements, surprise attacks, and effective flanking maneuvers that could decisively impact battles and territorial expansion.
Centralized Government: A centralized government is a political system where power and authority are concentrated in a single central entity or governing body, which holds the ultimate decision-making authority over the state. This structure facilitates uniform policies, laws, and administration across a territory, promoting stability and cohesion within the society. In various African empires, centralized governments played a crucial role in unifying diverse groups, managing resources, and exerting control over trade and territories.
Cultural diffusion: Cultural diffusion is the process by which cultural beliefs, practices, and items spread from one group to another, often through trade, migration, or conquest. This exchange can lead to the blending of cultures, influencing social structures, religious practices, and economic systems across different regions.
Djenné: Djenné is an ancient city in Mali, known for its significant role as a center of trade, education, and culture during the rise of the Mali Empire. The city is particularly famous for its unique mud-brick architecture and the Great Mosque, which symbolizes the fusion of Islamic and local architectural styles. Djenné's strategic location along trans-Saharan trade routes contributed to its prosperity and cultural exchange.
Economic influence: Economic influence refers to the capacity of a state, entity, or individual to affect the economic actions and decisions of others through various means such as trade, investment, or control of resources. In the context of the Mali Empire, economic influence played a crucial role in its rise and expansion, as wealth derived from trade routes and resource management significantly bolstered its power and territorial reach.
Epic of Sundiata: The Epic of Sundiata is a foundational narrative of the Mali Empire, recounting the life and accomplishments of its legendary founder, Sundiata Keita. This epic poem not only highlights Sundiata's triumph over adversity but also serves as a cultural touchstone, reflecting the values, beliefs, and history of the Malinke people as they established their empire.
Gao: Gao was an important city in the ancient Mali Empire and served as a critical trading hub during its rise. It played a key role in facilitating trade, especially in gold and salt, which were vital commodities for the empires of West Africa. The city’s strategic location along the Niger River made it a center for commerce and culture, influencing the spread of Islam in the region.
Gold trade: Gold trade refers to the exchange and commerce of gold, a highly valued precious metal that has historically been a symbol of wealth and power. The gold trade was a crucial element in the economic systems of various African kingdoms, impacting their political dynamics, social structures, and interactions with neighboring regions and empires.
Griot traditions: Griot traditions refer to a rich oral history and storytelling practice in West Africa, primarily carried out by griots, who are considered the cultural custodians of their communities. These skilled musicians, poets, and storytellers preserve and transmit historical narratives, genealogies, and social values through song and spoken word, playing a crucial role in maintaining the collective memory and cultural identity of the people, especially during the rise of powerful empires like Mali.
Islamic scholarship: Islamic scholarship refers to the intellectual and academic pursuits undertaken within the framework of Islamic thought, focusing on theology, philosophy, law, science, and literature. It played a crucial role in the development of knowledge systems in Islamic empires, where scholars preserved and expanded upon classical works while integrating local traditions, which was especially prominent during the rise of powerful empires in West Africa.
Mansa Musa: Mansa Musa was the ninth emperor of the Mali Empire, reigning from 1312 to 1337, and is best known for his extravagant pilgrimage to Mecca in 1324, which showcased the wealth and power of Mali. His rule marked a significant period of prosperity, cultural flourishing, and the expansion of trade routes across West Africa.
Military organization: Military organization refers to the structured way that armed forces are arranged and operated, including the hierarchy, roles, and relationships among different units and personnel. In the context of the rise and expansion of the Mali Empire, military organization was crucial for maintaining power, executing military campaigns, and administering the empire effectively as it grew.
Niani: Niani was the capital city of the Mali Empire, known for its strategic location and vibrant trade network. As the political and cultural center of the empire, Niani played a crucial role in the rise and expansion of Mali, facilitating commerce and fostering a rich cultural exchange that contributed to the empire's wealth and influence.
Niger River: The Niger River is one of the longest rivers in Africa, stretching about 4,180 kilometers and flowing through several countries including Guinea, Mali, Niger, Benin, and Nigeria. It plays a crucial role in the continent's geography, climate, trade routes, and the development of powerful empires along its banks.
Provincial Administration: Provincial administration refers to the system of governance and management of various regions or provinces within an empire or kingdom. This structure is crucial for implementing policies, collecting taxes, and maintaining order across diverse territories, particularly during the rise and expansion of empires. In the context of powerful empires, effective provincial administration allowed for the integration of different cultures and societies, facilitating trade and communication while ensuring loyalty to the central authority.
Sahara Desert: The Sahara Desert is the largest hot desert in the world, covering approximately 3.6 million square miles across North Africa. Its vast expanse of arid land plays a crucial role in shaping the continent's geographical features and climate zones, influencing trade routes, empires, and cultures throughout history.
Sundiata Keita: Sundiata Keita was the founder of the Mali Empire in the early 13th century and is celebrated for his role in unifying the Mandinka people and establishing a powerful kingdom in West Africa. His story is not only a historical account but also a legendary narrative that embodies themes of resilience, leadership, and cultural identity, which are crucial for understanding the rise and expansion of the Mali Empire and its significant economic systems.
Timbuktu: Timbuktu is an ancient city located in present-day Mali, known for its historical significance as a center of trade, culture, and education during the medieval period. It became a hub for Islamic scholarship and commerce, especially during the rise of the Mali Empire and later the Songhai Empire, contributing to the spread of Islam and cultural developments across West Africa.
Trans-saharan trade: Trans-saharan trade refers to the extensive network of trade routes that connected sub-Saharan Africa with North Africa and beyond, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and culture. This trade was crucial for the economic and social development of various empires in West Africa, shaping their structures and influencing political dynamics across the Sahara Desert.
University of Sankore: The University of Sankore was a prominent educational institution located in Timbuktu, Mali, during the height of the Mali Empire. It was a center for learning that attracted scholars from various regions, contributing significantly to the development of Islamic education and intellectual life in West Africa. The university is a key example of the cultural and educational advancements that flourished during the expansion of the Mali Empire.
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