Question

Why was Timbuktu an important location in Mali's empire?

a. It was the capital of Ghana.

b. It was a center for learning.

c. It controlled the gold and salt trade.

d. It was the earliest city founded in West Africa.

Answer 1

b. It was a center for learning.

Answer 2

Option B, it was a center for learning is the right answer.

The empire of Mali was founded by Sundiata Keita around 1235 C.E when he united the tribes of the Malinke people. Over a course of time, Mali empire became stronger and took over surrounding kingdoms including the Ghana Empire. This city was established as a scholarly center in Africa. in its golden age, the Islamic scholars, and the extensive trading network contributed much to the trade of books. the foundation of the campuses of the Sankore Madrassa (Islamic University), made Timbuktu a center for learning. The core of learning was the Koran. The study of the Koran formed the basis of this learning tradition with its scholars writing, transcribing and introducing works on many subjects including mathematics, astronomy, geography, law and history.