Mali

The Mali Empire, which flourished from the 13th to the 16th century, was a crucial center for trade and culture in West Africa. It controlled key trans-Saharan trade routes, facilitating the exchange of gold, salt, and other goods, which helped it become very wealthy and powerful. This wealth also allowed Mali to become a center of learning and culture, with places like Timbuktu becoming famous for their universities and libraries. Today, the legacy of Mali's trade routes can be seen in the global economy, where trade continues to connect different cultures and regions. For an average person, this highlights the importance of cultural exchanges and the benefits of learning from diverse perspectives, which can lead to richer, more informed communities.