Question

How did Mansa Musa contribute to the spread of the Arabic language in West Africa?

A He made Islam the state religion of Mali and forced his subjects to learn Arabic.
B.He required all West African merchants to learn Arabic to improve trade with Islamic regions
C.He brought Arabic scholars and texts to the region to encourage the study of Islam
D.He conquered Muslim-controlled lands and returned home with caravans full of Arabic literature

Answer 1

Mansa Musa spread the Arabic language in West Africa by establishing Timbuktu as a hub for trade and Muslim scholarship, bringing Arab scholars to the region, and creating centers of Islamic learning.

Step-by-step explanation:

Mansa Musa's contribution to the spread of the Arabic language in West Africa can be largely attributed to his efforts in establishing Mali as a center of Muslim scholarship and learning. His reign marked the creation of Timbuktu as an international center for trade and education. Mansa Musa brought Arab scholars, along with their books and teachings, to Mali. This initiative included the introduction of over one hundred schools and eighteen universities that offered Islamic studies, thereby propagating the Arabic language and Islamic culture throughout the empire.

During his famous pilgrimage to Mecca in 1324-1325, Mansa Musa distributed gold throughout his journey, notably affecting the economy of Egypt. Upon his return, he invested in the construction of educational structures such as universities and the Djinguereber Mosque in Timbuktu, all of which played a significant role in making Arabic the language of administration, trade, and scholarship.