Final answer:
Sundiata Keita contributed to the development of the Mali Empire through military conquests, economic reforms that capitalized on gold trade, and cultural development that mixed Islamic and local traditions. His leadership and the strategic positioning of the capital Niani fostered Mali's growth into a wealthy and culturally rich empire. Successors like Mansa Musa continued to enhance Mali's prominence, especially in the realms of scholarship and trade.
The correct answer is a. Military conquests
Step-by-step explanation:
Sundiata Keita, the legendary founder of the Mali Empire, contributed to its growth through various means, primarily by military conquests, economic reforms, and cultural development. His military victories consolidated his rule and expanded the empire beyond its former borders. Sundiata established Niani as the imperial capital, situating it near the lucrative goldfields of Bure, which enriched the empire and turned it into a central trading hub.
Economic reforms under Sundiata's rule arguably contributed to making Mali richer and more agriculturally successful than the previous empire of Ghana. These reforms included assuming control over the goldfields and critical trade routes that bolstered Mali's economy. Furthermore, Sundiata's rule saw a mixing of Islamic religious practices with traditional African ceremonies, displaying a form of cultural development that would define Mali's identity.
Following Sundiata's rule, many of his successors converted to Islam, and under Mansa Musa's reign, Mali witnessed a significant cultural and scholarly flourish. The empire became renowned for its wealth, attracting scholars and jurists from across the Islamic world, particularly to the city of Timbuktu, which was transformed into a center of Islamic learning. Mali's control over the strategic resources and trade routes, along with its cultural advancements, solidified its status as a powerful and influential empire in West African history.