Mali Empire

In this episode, we explore the Mali Empire, one of medieval Africa’s most powerful and wealthy states, which flourished from the 13th to the 16th century across West Africa. We trace its rise under Sundiata Keita, its golden age under Mansa Musa, and the vast trade networks that connected Mali to North Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and beyond. The episode examines how gold, Islam, oral tradition, and political alliances shaped the empire’s influence, while also looking at its flexible system of vassal kingdoms, social hierarchy, and cultural prestige. Finally, we consider Mali’s decline and its lasting legacy in West African identity, memory, and history.