The Rise of the Mali Empire

The video explores the rise of the Mali Empire under Sundiata, who overcame personal and political challenges to defeat the sorcerer king Soumaoro and establish a prosperous empire. The Mali Empire expanded beyond the Ghana Empire, controlling gold mines and trade routes. After Sundiata's death, the empire faced dynastic struggles but eventually stabilized, leading to a golden age of trade and exploration.

What was the primary reason traders risked the journey across the Sahara to reach the kingdom to the south?

• To discover new lands

• To find new spices

• To spread religion

• To acquire gold

What was the main cause of the Ghana Empire's decline?

• Invasion by the Mongols

• Drought and internal strife

• Lack of trade routes

• Overpopulation

How did Sundiata manage to defeat Soumaoro Kante?

• By bribing Soumaoro's generals

• By receiving help from the Mongols

• By forming a coalition of smaller kingdoms

• By using a magical sword

What was a key feature of Sundiata's governance in the Mali Empire?

• Absolute monarchy

• Religious theocracy

• Decentralized federation

• Military dictatorship

Which city did Sundiata choose as the capital of the Mali Empire?

• Timbuktu

• Niani

• Gao

• Koumbi Saleh

What was one of the major economic activities that contributed to the prosperity of the Mali Empire?

• Trade in salt, slaves, and gold

• Textile production

• Agriculture

• Fishing

What challenge did the Mali Empire face after Sundiata's death?

• Famine and drought

• Civil war and dynastic struggles

• Loss of trade routes

• Invasion by the Mongols

Who was the first ruler of Mali to make the pilgrimage to Mecca?

• Mansa Abubakari Kieta II

• Sundiata's successor

• Mansa Musa

• Sundiata

What was the outcome of Mansa Abubakari Kieta II's exploratory expedition?

• He discovered new lands

• He returned with riches

• He established a new trade route

• He was never heard from again

What significant event marked the beginning of Mali's Golden Age?

• The stabilization of the empire after civil war

• The discovery of new gold mines

• The construction of a new capital

• The successful invasion of Morocco