Μάνσα Μούσα was the ninth emperor of the Mali Empire, reigning from 1312 to 1337. He is best known for his immense wealth, which was largely derived from the abundant gold resources in his empire. His pilgrimage to Mecca in 1324 showcased his riches, as he distributed gold generously along the way, impacting economies in regions he passed through. Under Mούσα's rule, the Mali Empire flourished culturally and economically. He promoted education and the arts, leading to the establishment of Timbuktu as a center of learning and trade. His reign is often regarded as a golden age for the empire, highlighting the significance of West Africa in global history.