In which way was Mali different from Axum?

The statement that correctly highlights the difference between Mali and Axum is: Mali became primarily a Muslim culture.

Mali, particularly during the reign of Mansa Musa in the 14th century, became a center of Islamic culture and scholarship. In contrast, Axum was known for its early adoption of Christianity and was one of the first major empires to do so in the 4th century. The other statements do not accurately reflect the differences between the two civilizations:

• Mali was influenced by Christianity: This is not accurate as Mali is primarily associated with Islam.
• Mali relied on trade across the Indian Ocean: While Mali did engage in trade, it primarily traded across the Sahara Desert, not the Indian Ocean.
• Mali's wealth was evident in their construction of stelae: This is more characteristic of Axum, which is known for its impressive stelae marking tombs and royal graves.

Thus, the key difference highlighted is Mali's status as a primarily Muslim culture.