Mali and Songhai Quick Check

1. What were the key factors that contributed to the rise of the Mali Empire?

- The rise of the Mali Empire was mainly due to the leadership of its founder, Sundiata Keita, who united several smaller kingdoms and established a strong centralized government. The empire also benefited from its strategic location along the trans-Saharan trade routes, allowing it to control and tax the trade of gold, salt, and other valuable commodities.

2. Who was Mansa Musa and why was he significant?

- Mansa Musa was one of the most famous rulers of the Mali Empire, who came to power in the early 14th century. He is known for his legendary wealth and his pilgrimage to Mecca, during which he distributed vast amounts of gold and other gifts along the way. Mansa Musa's pilgrimage helped to spread Islam in West Africa and raised the profile of Mali as a powerful empire.

3. How did the Songhai Empire surpass the Mali Empire in power and influence?

- The Songhai Empire rose to power after overthrowing the weakened Mali Empire in the late 15th century. Under the leadership of Sunni Ali, Songhai expanded its territory and conquered key trading cities such as Timbuktu. The empire continued to grow and flourish under the rule of Askia Muhammad, who strengthened the central government and made Islam the official religion. The Songhai Empire eventually fell to Moroccan invaders in the 16th century.

Which of the following was one way Islam influenced the Songhai Empire?

A.
Religious practices were used to create labor specializations.

B.
Muslim judges enforced laws based on the Quran.

C.
Islamic practices guided the expansion of territories.

D.
Muslim leaders built great mosques in cities.

B. Muslim judges enforced laws based on the Quran.

How did Mansa Musa establish Mali as a center of Muslim culture?

A.
He spent so much gold on his hajj that it weakened the economy of Egypt for years.

B.
He extended Mali’s territory and made Mali one of the largest empires of its time.

C.
He brought Muslim scholars, artists, and teachers to work in Mali.

D.
He established trade links with Muslim salt merchants in North Africa.

C. He brought Muslim scholars, artists, and teachers to work in Mali.

Which of the following is the main reason Sundiata is remembered in legends?

A.
He introduced Islam to West Africa.

B.
He conquered Timbuktu.

C.
He founded the Mali Empire.

D.
He started the gold-salt trade.

C. He founded the Mali Empire.

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