The Kingdom of Mali was a powerful West African empire that flourished from the 13th to the 16th century. It was known for its wealth, particularly in gold, and its strategic location along trade routes that connected North Africa to sub-Saharan regions. The capital city, Timbuktu, became a major center for trade, culture, and education, attracting scholars and traders from various parts of the world. One of the most famous rulers of the Kingdom of Mali was Mansa Musa, who reigned in the 14th century. He is often celebrated for his pilgrimage to Mecca, which showcased the kingdom's immense wealth and helped to establish its reputation on the global stage. The kingdom eventually declined due to internal strife and external pressures, but its legacy remains significant in African history.