Sundiata Keita
Definition
Sundiata Keita was the founder and first emperor of the Mali Empire in West Africa during the 13th century.
Analogy
Think of Sundiata Keita as the Steve Jobs of his time. Just like Steve Jobs founded Apple and revolutionized technology, Sundiata Keita founded the Mali Empire and transformed West Africa politically, economically, and culturally.
Related terms
Griots: These were traditional oral historians, storytellers, singers, poets in parts of West Africa who passed down history from generation to generation.
Mali Empire: A powerful African empire that existed from 1235 to 1670. It was known for its wealth and trade connections.
Epic of Sundiata: An epic poem that tells the story of Sundiata Keita's life and achievements. It is a major part of Malian culture much like Shakespeare's works are to English literature.
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