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The history of Mali dates back to 300 AD. In those times Mali served as an important trade route for caravans. By the beginning of 12th century AD, Mali came under the rule of the Malinke dynasty. This dynasty ruled till the 16th century. The history of Mali witnessed the golden period of trade and commerce during the 14th and 15th centuries. Mali mainly exported of gold, ivory, weapons and jewelry.
Sundiata was the first great ruler of Mali. He was the first person in Mali who thought of forming a central government. This system brought about peace and order in the nation. He also took several steps to improve the economy of Mali. Sundiata captured most of the territories in Mali which were rich in gold thus giving Mali the monopoly over gold trade. Cotton cultivation was also introduced by him. Under his guidance Mali flourished to a great extent making it one of the richest agricultural regions in West Africa. He went on to rule until his death in 1255.
The history of Mali saw seize of power by foreign nations. Timbuktu, a very important city of Mali, was conquered by Morocco in 1591. It remained under Moroccan rule for nearly two centuries. Again conquered by France in the 19th century, Timbuktu became a French colony and it was named as French Sudan in 1920. In 1960 it became independent and was named as Sudanese Republic. Republic of Senegal was included in the Mali Federation. But soon Senegal separated itself from the federation and Sudanese Republic became the Republic of Mali. This is how the Republic of Mali was formed.
For further information on history of Mali, log on the following sections:
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