Question

Write a topic sentence that answers this question: What impressions did Mali make on those who traveled there?

a) Mali's cultural diversity and historical richness captivated travelers.
b) Mali's geographical location made it challenging for travelers to explore.
c) Mali's lack of infrastructure discouraged travelers from visiting.
d) Mali's political instability affected the safety of travelers.

Answer 1

Mali impressed travelers with its cultural diversity, historical richness, and centers of Islamic scholarship, despite periods of political instability.

Step-by-step explanation:

The topic sentence that best answers the question, 'What impressions did Mali make on those who traveled there?' is: Mali's cultural diversity and historical richness captivated travelers.

Travelers to Mali, including renowned figures like Ibn Battuta, noted the impressive cultural and intellectual richness of the region. The influence of Islam, as evidenced through the architecture of mosques and centers of Islamic scholarship in cities such as Timbuktu and Djenné, left a lasting impression on visitors. Despite the political challenges, especially during the periods of dynastic civil wars and the eventual decline of the Mali Empire, Mali was known for its impressive public works and the availability of valuable commodities like gold and salt, which were essential to the trans-Saharan trade.