Mansa Musa

High school (ages 12+)
History & Culture

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/mansa-musa

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. When was Mansa Musa born?Circa 1280
2. When did Mansa Musa die?Circa 1337
3. Where was Mansa Musa born?Mali Empire (region encompassing modern-day Mali and surrounding West African nations)
4. What made Mansa Musa the richest king ever?He ruled the Mali Empire, which controlled gold mines and the salt trade, giving him huge wealth.
5. Why did Mansa Musa travel to Mecca in 1324?He went on a pilgrimage to Mecca to show his faith and also to display his wealth and power.

Mansa: The title of the emperor or king of the Mali Empire, signifying supreme authority and leadership.
Mali Empire: A powerful medieval West African empire (c. 1235–1670) known for its vast wealth, extensive trade networks, and significant cultural contributions.
Hajj: The fifth pillar of Islam, a mandatory religious pilgrimage to Mecca undertaken by Muslims who are physically and financially able.
Timbuktu: A historic city in Mali that flourished as a major hub of Islamic scholarship, trade, and culture during the Mali Empire's height.