History of the Mali Empire and Timbuktu

Comprehensive flashcards covering the history of the Mali Empire, the reign of Mansa Musa, trans-Saharan trade, and the cultural significance of Timbuktu.

Which major river, over $4000\,km$ long, flowed through the Mali Empire?

The Niger River

During which century did the Mali Empire reach the height of its power?

The 14th century ($1300$ - $1399$)

For how many days can a camel go without drinking water?

Up to nine days

What feature of a camel's feet prevents it from sliding and sinking into the sand?

Broad, flat, leathery pads that spread when it steps

How high can daytime temperatures reach in the Sahara Desert during the summer?

$$57^\circ\text{C}$$

Where was salt mined before being brought to Mali?

The salt-rich village of Taghaza

What name is used for the king or emperor of Mali?

Mansa

When did Arab Muslim traders first bring the religion of Islam to West Africa?

The 9th century

During which years did Mansa Musa rule the Mali Empire?

$1312$ to $1337$

What were the two famous nicknames given to Mansa Musa?

'Musa the Magnificent' and the 'Lion of Mali'

What form of money became common in Mali for trade alongside gold?

Cowrie shells

During Mansa Musa's pilgrimage to Mecca, how much gold did each of the $80$ camels carry?

About $150\,kg$

What happened to the price of gold in Cairo following Mansa Musa's visit?

The price fell and took a few years to recover due to his extreme spending and generosity.

What is the name of the mosque built in Timbuktu by an Arab architect after Mansa Musa's pilgrimage?

Djingareyber Mosque

What is the largest structure in the world made entirely out of mud?

The Great Mosque in the city of Djenne

When did Timbuktu become a part of the Mali Empire?

The early 13th century

What was the name of the book written by Leo Africanus in $1550$ describing his travels in Africa?

Description of Africa

What was the name of the first university in the world, located in Timbuktu?

Sankore University

How many students was the Sankore University capable of hosting?

$25\,000$ students

What event marked the end of the Golden Age of the Mali Empire in the middle of the 16th century?

Morocco invaded Mali, took its wealth, and killed or exiled many scholars.

Which South African president visited Mali in $2001$ and promised to help preserve the Timbuktu Manuscripts?

Thabo Mbeki

What institute currently houses approximately $300,000$ old manuscripts in Timbuktu?

The Ahmed Baba Institute

In what year was Timbuktu declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

$$1988$$

What specific materials were used to construct the Djingareyber Mosque?

Heat-baked bricks of mud mixed with straw and rice husks, supported by wooden beams.