Sundiata makes Mali an Empire

By Ana, Justin, and Scott

Please Take Notes!

The Mali empire lay along the Niger River. The fertile soil there let people grow crops and allowed trade. Sundiata was the ruler under whom Mali become rich and powerful.

Sundiata conquered Ghana and took control of salt and gold routes. He introduced cotton to the people which let them sell and make clothes out of it. He also sent soldiers to work in the fields.

To keep power in the Mali empire Sundiata took power from mansa, or local leaders. By being a local leader Sundiata gained even more power in Mali. Sundiata died in1255, his son took the throne after him.

Quiz Questions

• 1.Who is believed to have made Mali rich and powerful?

• 2. Where is Mali located?• 3. What did Mali gain control of?• 4. What kind of land was Mali located on?• 5. What kind of new crop did Sundiata

introduce?