The Kingdom of Mali

The ancient kingdom of Mali began as a small state that broke away from Ghana during its decline. It formed in the early 1200s and gradually took over neighboring powers until, by the end of that century its territory included all of the old kingdom of Ghana. During this early period, one of Mali’s kings, Sundiata Keita, did much to organize the country. He established a permanent army and divided Mali into provinces, each one administrated by a general whose responsibility was to keep the peace and provide food for the people. Sundiata used his armies to clear l...