Which empire was founded by Sundiata Keita in West Africa?

Sundiata Keita founded the Mali Empire in West Africa.

According to the Epic of Sundiata and later historical accounts, he defeated Sumanguru Kanté at the Battle of Kirina around 1235. That victory enabled him to unite territories and establish the power that became the Mali Empire.

Mali grew across parts of modern Mali, Senegal, Gambia, Guinea, Mauritania, Côte d’Ivoire, and Burkina Faso. Its wealth came largely from control of trans-Saharan trade in gold, salt, and other goods.

The empire reached its greatest fame under Mansa Musa, who ruled in the fourteenth century and became renowned for his pilgrimage to Mecca. Sundiata and Mansa Musa are different historical figures: Sundiata established the state, while Musa later expanded its reputation and influence.