Study Guides

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils learn about the success of medieval Mali, with a focus on the second-order concept of causation. They build knowledge of the West African landscape and the role it played in Mali's rise. They will also learn about the rise of Islam in the region and Mansa Musa's pilgrimage.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain why new civilisations, such as the Mali Empire, emerged across the Sahel.

Key Notes

• New civilisations grew up in the Sahel as the Ghana Empire declined and trade increased.
• Trade from new gold fields bypassed the Ghana Empire, which made other kingdoms in the region wealthy and powerful.
• The Mali Empire was one new civilisation which expanded.
• The rulers of Mali and the people who lived in cities were generally followers of Islam.
• The people who lived in the countryside generally retained their traditional religious practices.

Vocabulary To Learn

• empire: a group of territories ruled over by one person or group of people
• trade: exchange of goods
• Mansa: the word used in the Mali Empire to refer to the king or emperor
• Islam: the religion of Muslim people

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• All followers of the same religion practise their religion in the same way.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

More Lessons In This Unit

• Gold and the West African economy Study Guide
• Islam in medieval West Africa Study Guide
• Mansa Musa's pilgrimage Study Guide
• The successful expansion of medieval Mali Study Guide
• Trade routes throughout West Africa Study Guide