The Rise and Fall of the Mali and Songhai Empires

The video explores the decline of the Mali Empire due to internal struggles and external threats, leading to the rise of the Songhai Empire under Sunni Ali. The Songhai expanded significantly, but eventually fell to Moroccan forces. The Mali Empire adapted by shifting focus to Atlantic trade, but was ultimately weakened by the Transatlantic slave trade and colonial pressures. The video highlights the cultural and economic achievements of these empires and their lasting impact on West Africa.

What was one of the main reasons for the rise of Sunni Ali and the Songhai Empire?

• The internal power struggles within the Mali Empire

• The alliance with European traders

• The invention of new military technology

• The discovery of new gold mines

How did Sunni Ali manage religious tensions during his reign?

• By converting all subjects to Islam

• By balancing urban Muslim interests with rural non-Muslim interests

• By ignoring religious matters entirely

• By enforcing strict religious laws

What significant change did Askia Muhammad bring to the Songhai Empire?

• He introduced a meritocratic government

• He relocated the capital city

• He banned all non-Muslim practices

• He abolished the monarchy

How did Mali adapt to the rise of the Songhai Empire?

• By focusing on trade with the Atlantic Coast

• By forming an alliance with the Songhai

• By relocating its capital

• By expanding its military forces

What was a major consequence of the Transatlantic slave trade for West African kingdoms?

• Increased political stability

• Economic prosperity

• Cultural renaissance

• Decreased manpower and vulnerability to invasions

What new weapon did the Moroccans introduce during their invasion of the Songhai Empire?

• The crossbow

• The catapult

• The longbow

• The arquebus

What was the outcome of the Moroccan invasion of Mali?

• Mali forced a draw but eventually declined

• Mali was completely annexed by Morocco

• Mali formed an alliance with Morocco

• Mali successfully repelled the invaders

Which empire is often remembered for its wealth, particularly under Mansa Musa?

• The Songhai Empire

• The Moroccan Empire

• The Ghana Empire

• The Mali Empire

What was one of the cultural contributions of the Songhai Empire?

• The construction of the Great Wall

• The development of a new language

• The creation of masks and statuary

• The invention of the printing press

Why did a newly independent nation in 1959 choose the name Mali?

• To signify a new beginning

• To connect with its historical legacy

• To reflect its colonial past

• To honor a famous explorer