Under the leadership of Mansa Musa, 1312 - 1337, Mali became famous for its trade in gold and the kingdom became incredibly prosperous. Some historians remember Mansa Musa as the ‘wealthiest man ...

Mansa Musa Ascends to the Throne Very little is known about Musa’s early life, though it is believed he was born in the late 13th century. Musa is believed to be the grandnephew of Mansa Sundiata.