Mansa Musa by Jessica Many
Mali’s most illustrious and famous king was Mansa Musa. He ruled for a period of 25 years,
from 1312-1327. Before his rule, there was a period of instability. Under his leadership, he
captured many important trading cities, and Mali reached the height of its wealth, power,
and fame. As an influential leader and devout Muslim, Mansa Musa built new mosques in
Timbuktu and Gao. He also established several Arabic schools and Universities, attracting
Muslim judges, doctors, religious leaders, and scholars.