Question

Become rich and powerful. Its most famous ruler

was a Muslim king, Mansa Musa (MAHN-sah
moos-SAH). Under his leadership Mali grew in
wealth and power. Traders came to Timbuktu
(tim-buhk-TOO), an important city, to trade for
salt, gold, metals, shells, and other goods.
Because he was a devout Muslim, Mansa
Musa went on a hajj, or a pilgrimage to Mecca.
His influence helped bring Islam to a large part
of West Africa. In the 1300s Mansa Musa
conquered a kingdom called Songhai (SAWNG-
hy). These people also lived along the Niger
River. As the Mali kingdom weakened in the
1400s, Songhai regained independence.
One of the greatest Songhai rulers was
Muhammad Ture. He chose a military title, askia,
and became known as Askia the Great. Like
Mansa Musa, Askia was a devout Muslim who
supported education and learning. His cities had
great mosques, schools, and libraries. He built a
professional army and organized Songhai with
governors who were loyal to him. Songhai
declined soon after Askia the Great lost power.
CHALLENGE ACTIVITY
Critical Thinking: Elaborate Imagine that you live
in one of the kingdoms discussed in this section.
Write a brief description of what an average day
might be like.
What did Mansa Musa and
Askia the Great have in
common?

Answer 1

Mansa Musa and Askia the Great were both influential Muslim rulers in West Africa who supported the spread of Islam and education.

Step-by-step explanation:

Mansa Musa and Askia the Great were both influential rulers in West Africa. They both supported and promoted the spread of Islam in their respective kingdoms. Mansa Musa went on a pilgrimage to Mecca, known as a hajj, and his influence helped bring Islam to a large part of West Africa. Askia the Great, like Mansa Musa, was also a devout Muslim who supported education and learning in his kingdom.

Learn more about Influential Muslim rulers in West Africa