Sunjiata's legacy paved the way for many reputable successors. The most distinct successor to the Mali empire was Mansa Musa, who reigned for 25 years, from 1312 to 1337. Musa was a direct descendant of Sunjiata. Mansa Musa also expanded the empire's trade routes, enforced Islamic doctrine, and established universities, libraries, and religious institutions in the city of TImbuktu. Timbuktu was the prime center for education; scholars travelled from far away countries to seek the knowledge in studies of Astronomy, Mathematics, Sciences, and Islam. Mansa Musa is recognized today as the world's wealthiest man. Apparently no one has yet to acquire as much worth in monetary assets as this historical African king.
Sunjiata's story is well preserved to this day, sung by griots, written in books, and studied by students in all parts of the world. Sunjiata's story of triumph is an unusual one mainly for its association with magic; however it is also inspirational because of his endurance which lead to a grand legacy, the country of Mali, and the influences which remain in the other countries of West Africa.
The glorious empire of ancient Mali is now a glorious country, full of culture, and preserving the traditions of it's past.
Sunjiata's story is well preserved to this day, sung by griots, written in books, and studied by students in all parts of the world. Sunjiata's story of triumph is an unusual one mainly for its association with magic; however it is also inspirational because of his endurance which lead to a grand legacy, the country of Mali, and the influences which remain in the other countries of West Africa.
The glorious empire of ancient Mali is now a glorious country, full of culture, and preserving the traditions of it's past.
Play the video below to listen to the epic of Sunjiata expressed in song by a griot.
|
Play the video below to hear the story of Sunjiata, spoken in French Creole, the national language spoken through Mali.
|