Mansa Musa ruled for the next 25 years and used Mali's military might to control the trade routes of the Sahara and the Niger River, greatly expanding the wealth and power of the empire.

The Mali Empire was the center of the world’s gold production, affording Musa indescribable wealth. During his reign, he embarked on a fabled gold-laden pilgrimage to Mecca.

Through its language, laws, and customs, it profoundly impacted the cultures of West Africa, not only along the Niger River but along many other areas that were ruled by vassals. As a result of his ...

The actual name of the Empire was Wagadugu. Ghana was the title of the kings who ruled the kingdom. It was controlled by Sundiata in 1240 AD, and absorbed into the larger Mali Empire. (Mali Empire ...