Lecture Notes: The Empires of Mali and Songhai

Overview

• The Djembe and Delune drums of Mali introduce the kings and warriors from the 13th century who dominated West Africa.
• Key historical figures include Sundiata, Sunni Ali Bear, Mansa Musa, Abu Bakar II, and Askia Mohammed.
• The empires of Mali and Songhai emerged from the ashes of the Ghana Empire.

The Ghana Empire

• Dominated the region between the 4th and 11th centuries.
• Economy based on gold, millet, sorghum, hides, and slaves.
• Traded with the Tuareg of the Sahara desert.
• Collapsed due to internal issues, leading to the rise of Mali and Songhai.

The Mali Empire

• Founded after the defeat of the king of Sosso by Sundiata Keita around 1240.
• Sundiata recognized as a great warrior and leader.
• Empire extended across present-day Mali, Guinea, Gambia, Senegal.
• Known for peace, prosperity, and alliances.

Key Contributions

• Economic growth through trans-Saharan trade.
• Religious tolerance under Sundiata, who did not enforce Islam.
• Legacy of traditional religions and Islam co-existing.

Abu Bakar II and Exploration

• Abu Bakar II attempted an expedition across the Atlantic before Columbus.
• The expedition’s success is debated; some evidence suggests interaction with the Americas.

Mansa Musa

• Ruled from 1312 to 1337, noted for his pilgrimage to Mecca in 1325.
• Known for lavish spending that affected gold prices in Cairo.
• Elevated Mali's status internationally through diplomacy and trade.
• Promoted Islamic architecture, such as the Djinguereber Mosque.
• Established Timbuktu as a center for Islamic scholarship.

Decline of the Mali Empire

• After Mansa Musa, the empire weakened due to internal strife and economic difficulties.

The Songhai Empire

• Rose to power in the 15th century, eventually surpassing Mali.
• Expanded under leaders like Sunni Ali Bear and Askia Mohammed.

Sunni Ali Bear

• Non-Muslim ruler who maintained traditional beliefs.
• Known for military strength and empire expansion.
• Had conflicts with Timbuktu due to religious differences.

Askia Mohammed

• Promoted Islamic scholarship and established universities.
• Encouraged book production and intellectual exchange with other regions.

Legacy of Songhai

• Known for political and economic stability, social cohesion, and scholarly achievements.
• Fell to Moroccan invasion in 1590.

Conclusion

• The empires of Mali and Songhai were notable for their cultural, economic, and political impact on West Africa.
• They were recognized for their wealth, power, and influence across the world during their zenith.

Important Themes

• Impact of Islam on societal structures.
• Significance of trade and economic policies.
• The role of military conquest and alliances in empire-building.
• Contributions to learning, culture, and architecture.