Mansa Musa: Ruler of the Mali Empire
This worksheet explores the life, reign, and legacy of Mansa Musa, focusing on his pilgrimage to Mecca, his impact on the Mali Empire, and his place in world history.
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Mansa Musa: Ruler of the Mali Empire
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Read the information provided and answer the questions to the best of your ability. Some questions may require critical thinking and analysis.
Mansa Musa (c. 1280 – c. 1337) was the tenth Mansa, which translates to 'sultan', 'conqueror', or 'emperor', of the wealthy West African Mali Empire. At the time of his ascent to the throne, the Mali Empire consisted of territory formerly belonging to the Ghana Empire in present-day southern Mauritania and Mali. During his reign, he expanded the empire significantly, making it one of the largest and wealthiest in the world. He is most famous for his extravagant pilgrimage to Mecca.
1. What does the title 'Mansa' signify in the context of the Mali Empire?
A religious leader
A wealthy merchant
An emperor or conqueror
A tribal chief
2. The Mali Empire, during Mansa Musa's reign, was primarily located in which part of Africa?
East Africa
Southern Africa
North Africa
West Africa
3. Mansa Musa's famous pilgrimage was to the city of .
4. The primary resource that contributed to the Mali Empire's wealth was .
5. Describe the impact of Mansa Musa's pilgrimage on the economies of the regions he passed through.
6. How did Mansa Musa's reign contribute to the spread of Islamic learning and culture in West Africa?
7. Mansa Musa was the founder of the Mali Empire.
True
False
8. Mansa Musa's pilgrimage caused a significant devaluation of gold in some regions.
True
False
Match each term with its correct description.
9. Timbuktu
a. The pilgrimage to Mecca
10. Gold
b. Major city and center of learning in the Mali Empire
11. Hajj
c. Primary source of wealth for the Mali Empire