Sundiata Keita
Sundiata Keita, was founder of the Great Mali Empire of West Africa. Sundiata Keita, whose name literally means “lion king”, was born in 1217 C.E.
According to legend, Sundiata struggled to walk in his early years due to a physical deformity When an enemy of his father came to kill the male offspring to prevent future takeover, Sundiata’s life was spared because of his deformity. He was exiled to the kingdom of Mema where he began the practice of wearing leg irons. Eventually his legs strengthened and he gained the ability to walk.
Sundiata’s Army
Sundiata Keita became a skillful warrior, hunter, and military strategist. Urged to return to his own village, Keita organized a private army and helped liberate his people from the oppressive Sosso rulers. With the aid of skillful military generals and allies, Sundiata Keita challenged the powers all over West Africa.
Keita’s army defeated Sumanguru in the battle at Krina (aka Kirina) in 1235 C.E. This was a decisive victory for Keita. Eliminating all resistance Sundiata seized the old Ghana capital, leading to the founding of the Mali Empire of West Africa..
The Great Mali Empire
The Mail Empire was the largest and richest empire in West Africa. it is renowned for the wealth of its rulers. and the influence on the culture, language, laws and customs of the region.
Keita established an ethical code of government. Although Sundiata Keita was Muslim, he allowed religious freedom throughout the Mali Empire. His policies garnered him praise for his leadership, and it fostered loyalty and support of the people of Mali.
Sundiata Keita’s Legacy
Sundiata Keita was officially proclaimed the Supreme Leader or Mansa by a great assembly of tribal chiefs. Clan leaders decreed that all future Mali kings would be selected from Sundiata's descendants. It was also decreed that each tribal group would be assigned a trade and each person within the group would have a defined role as part of a larger empire..
Sundiata Keita died in 1255 but his legacy and praise continues by storytellers, griots, and historians.
Mansa Musa l
Sundiata Keita’s grand nephew, Mansa Musa 1 later ascended to King of the Mali Empire. Mansa Musa 1 was the wealthiest man of his time and is famously known. for spending tons of gold on a visit to Cairo in 1324 C.E.
Article references
https://our-ancestories.com/blogs/news/the-great-sundiata-keita-founder-of-the-mali-empire?srsltid=AfmBOooEMNNvi6eQ6Tbi-AyHqWL6PQfkElrBiRlc9fzJd5EvuFMZbdUb
https://www.worldhistory.org/Sundiata_Keita/w