Ancient History Of Mali: Trivia Quiz!

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  • 1/30 Questions

    Ancient Mali was ruled by a _____________________

    • Power full king
    • President
    • Queen
    • Priest
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About This Quiz

Explore the rich history of the Mali Empire in this trivia quiz! Learn about its geography, major cities, leaders, economy, and cultural significance through engaging questions.

Ancient History Of Mali: Trivia Quiz! - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    Which animal was best suited for traveling across the desert?

    • Horses

    • Mules

    • Camels

    • Dogs

    Correct Answer
    A. Camels
    Explanation
    Camels are best suited for traveling across the desert due to their unique physiological adaptations. They have long legs and padded feet that help them walk on shifting sands without sinking. Their humps store fat, which provides them with energy and hydration during long journeys without water. Additionally, camels can close their nostrils to protect against sandstorms and their thick fur helps regulate body temperature in extreme desert conditions. These characteristics make camels the ideal choice for traversing the harsh and arid desert landscape.

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  • 3. 

    The word ancient means something that _______________________

    • Will happen in the future

    • Will happen today

    • Happened last year

    • Happened long, long ago

    Correct Answer
    A. Happened long, long ago
    Explanation
    The word "ancient" refers to something that occurred a significant amount of time in the past. It implies a sense of age and antiquity, suggesting that the event or object being described is from a distant era or time period.

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  • 4. 

    What important city in Mali had a famous university with a large library of books from ancient Greece and Rome?

    • Rome

    • Timbuktu

    • Baloku

    • Sadan

    Correct Answer
    A. Timbuktu
    Explanation
    Timbuktu is the correct answer because it was an important city in Mali that housed a renowned university and a vast library. This university, known as the University of Sankore, was a center of learning and intellectual exchange during the 15th and 16th centuries. It attracted scholars from all over the world and had a significant collection of books, including manuscripts from ancient Greece and Rome. Timbuktu's position as a cultural and educational hub made it a crucial city in Mali's history.

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  • 5. 

    What were the most prosperous empires of Africa?

    • Botswana

    • Librara

    • Mali

    • Congo

    Correct Answer
    A. Mali
    Explanation
    Mali is considered one of the most prosperous empires of Africa due to its wealth and power during the 13th and 14th centuries. It was known for its abundant gold resources, which contributed to its economic prosperity. Mali's ruler, Mansa Musa, is renowned for his extravagant pilgrimage to Mecca, during which he distributed vast amounts of gold, showcasing the empire's wealth. Mali was also a center of trade and learning, with the city of Timbuktu serving as a significant cultural and intellectual hub. Its prosperity and influence extended beyond its borders, making it a notable empire in African history.

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  • 6. 

    The head of government in ancient Mali was the:

    • Govenor

    • President

    • King

    • Mayor

    Correct Answer
    A. King
    Explanation
    In ancient Mali, the head of government was the King. The King held the highest authority and power in the kingdom. He was responsible for making important decisions, enforcing laws, and maintaining order in the kingdom. The King's role was hereditary, meaning that the position was passed down within the royal family. As the King, he had control over the military, economy, and overall governance of the kingdom. The King's rule was absolute and his word was law.

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  • 7. 

    Why were storytellers so important in the early West African empire of Mali?

    • They entertained the adults

    • They use the stories to build houses and roads

    • They passed on traditions and stories from one generation to the next.

    • They used stories to forget about the past

    Correct Answer
    A. They passed on traditions and stories from one generation to the next.
    Explanation
    Storytellers were important in the early West African empire of Mali because they passed on traditions and stories from one generation to the next. Through their storytelling, they preserved the cultural heritage, values, and history of the empire, ensuring that future generations would have a connection to their roots. These stories served as a means of education and communication, transmitting important knowledge and wisdom. By keeping the traditions alive, the storytellers helped to maintain the social and cultural fabric of the empire.

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  • 8. 

    What do we know about the leaders of the empire of Mali?

    • The kings of Mali were rich and powerful men who controlled trade in West Africa

    • The President of Mali was a powerful world leader

    • The queens of Mali were rich and powerfull women who contolled trade in West Africa

    • The mayors of Malie were rich and powerful men who controlled trade in West Africa

    Correct Answer
    A. The kings of Mali were rich and powerful men who controlled trade in West Africa
    Explanation
    The correct answer states that the kings of Mali were rich and powerful men who controlled trade in West Africa. This implies that the leaders of the empire of Mali held significant wealth and power, and they had control over the trade activities in the region. This suggests that they played a crucial role in the economic and political affairs of West Africa during that time.

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  • 9. 

    What desert was located is located north of Timbuktu?

    • Sahara Desert

    • Death Valley

    • Libian Desert

    • Kalhari Desert

    Correct Answer
    A. Sahara Desert
    Explanation
    The Sahara Desert is located north of Timbuktu. This desert is the largest hot desert in the world, stretching across several countries in North Africa. Its vast expanse covers much of the northern region of Mali, where Timbuktu is located. The Sahara Desert is known for its extreme temperatures, arid landscapes, and iconic sand dunes, making it a distinctive feature in the geography of the area.

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  • 10. 

    Ancient Mali's climate was:

    • Wet and cold

    • Cold and dry

    • Hot and dry

    • Hot and wet

    Correct Answer
    A. Hot and dry
    Explanation
    Ancient Mali's climate was hot and dry. This means that the region experienced high temperatures and little precipitation. The hot and dry climate would have influenced various aspects of life in Ancient Mali, such as agriculture, trade, and the availability of water resources.

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  • 11. 

    How did the people of the empire of Mali adapt to and change their environment to meet their needs?

    • Copper wan an important natural resource and they traded copper for gold

    • Salt was an important natural resource and they traded salt for gold

    • Iron was an important natural resource and they traded iron for gold

    • Water was plentiful in the desert so they traded it for salt

    Correct Answer
    A. Salt was an important natural resource and they traded salt for gold
    Explanation
    The people of the empire of Mali adapted to and changed their environment by recognizing the importance of salt as a natural resource. They utilized the abundant salt deposits in the region and traded it for gold, which was highly valued. This trade allowed them to meet their needs and establish a thriving economy.

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  • 12. 

    Timbuktu was an _________________________________

    • River

    • Desert

    • Important city

    • Trip to mecca

    Correct Answer
    A. Important city
    Explanation
    Timbuktu was an important city in West Africa. It was a center of trade, learning, and Islamic scholarship during the 15th and 16th centuries. Timbuktu was strategically located on the trans-Saharan trade routes, which allowed it to flourish as a hub for the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures. The city was renowned for its prestigious universities and libraries, housing thousands of ancient manuscripts. Timbuktu's significance as a cultural and intellectual center made it a sought-after destination for scholars, traders, and explorers from around the world.

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  • 13. 

    What city was located between the salt mines in the north and gold mines in the south?

    • Bamako

    • Timbuktu

    • Manas Musa

    • Sudan

    Correct Answer
    A. Timbuktu
    Explanation
    Timbuktu is the correct answer because it was a city that was strategically located between the salt mines in the north and the gold mines in the south. This location made Timbuktu an important trading hub during the medieval period, as it facilitated the exchange of these valuable resources. The city's position allowed it to thrive economically and become a center of learning and culture, attracting scholars and traders from various parts of Africa and beyond.

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  • 14. 

    If you lived in ancient Mali, your job might have been a:

    • Trader, roadbuilder, or miner

    • Miner, potter, or trader

    • Miner, trader, or farmer

    • Trader, shipbuilder, or trader

    Correct Answer
    A. Miner, trader, or farmer
    Explanation
    In ancient Mali, people had various occupations depending on their skills and resources available. Mining was an important economic activity in Mali due to its rich mineral resources, so being a miner was a possible job. Trading was also significant as Mali was a major trade center, especially in gold and salt. Therefore, being a trader was another possible occupation. Additionally, farming was essential for sustenance, so being a farmer was also a common job in ancient Mali.

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  • 15. 

    A groit was a ___________________________

    • Writter of books

    • Picture drawer

    • Story teller

    • Miner

    Correct Answer
    A. Story teller
    Explanation
    A groit was a traditional West African storyteller and oral historian who passed down history, cultural traditions, and moral lessons through storytelling. They were highly respected members of their communities and used their storytelling skills to entertain, educate, and preserve the cultural heritage of their people.

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  • 16. 

    Where was the Empire of Mali located?

    • East Africa

    • North Africa

    • West Africa

    • South Africa

    Correct Answer
    A. West Africa
    Explanation
    The Empire of Mali was located in West Africa. This region is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Mali was one of the largest empires in West Africa, thriving from the 13th to the 16th century. It was strategically located along the Niger River, which facilitated trade and economic growth. The empire was renowned for its wealth, particularly in gold and salt, and for its influential leaders, such as Mansa Musa. West Africa was a hub of trade and cultural exchange during this time, making it a significant location for the Empire of Mali.

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  • 17. 

    What is a contribution?

    • The act of taking free things

    • The act of stealing from people

    • The act of giving or doing something

    • The act of letting others give ro doing something

    Correct Answer
    A. The act of giving or doing something
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "The act of giving or doing something." This is because a contribution refers to the act of offering or providing something, whether it be a donation, support, or assistance, without expecting anything in return. It involves actively participating and making a positive impact by sharing resources, skills, or time for the benefit of others or a common cause.

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  • 18. 

    What was salt traded for during the time of the West African empire of Mali?

    • Salt

    • Sand

    • Gold

    • Iron

    Correct Answer
    A. Gold
    Explanation
    During the time of the West African empire of Mali, salt was traded for gold. Salt was a highly valued commodity because it was essential for preserving food and enhancing flavor. The West African region lacked salt deposits, while Mali was rich in gold. As a result, the people of Mali traded their abundant gold for salt, which was brought to Mali from the Sahara desert. This trade of salt for gold played a significant role in the economic prosperity and power of the Mali empire.

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  • 19. 

    How do we know so much about ancient Mali?

    • Writings on the walls

    • Books written by emperors

    • Story tellers

    • Miners

    Correct Answer
    A. Story tellers
    Explanation
    Story tellers are a valuable source of information when it comes to learning about ancient Mali. They pass down stories and traditions orally from generation to generation, preserving the history and knowledge of the civilization. Through their narratives, we gain insights into the culture, customs, and events of ancient Mali. These stories provide a unique perspective and offer a deeper understanding of the society, its rulers, and its people. Therefore, story tellers play a crucial role in helping us uncover and comprehend the rich history of ancient Mali.

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  • 20. 

    What river was very important to the farmers in Mali?

    • Nile

    • Niger

    • Mediterranean

    • Jordon

    Correct Answer
    A. Niger
    Explanation
    The Niger River was very important to the farmers in Mali. The Niger River is the principal river of western Africa and flows through Mali, providing water for irrigation and agriculture. It is a vital source of water for the farmers in Mali, allowing them to grow crops and sustain their livelihoods.

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  • 21. 

    Which of the following cities was NOT a major center of learning and trade in the ancient Mali Empire?

    • Timbuktu 

    • Jenne 

    • Gao 

    • Kumbi Saleh

    Correct Answer
    A. Kumbi Saleh
    Explanation
    Kumbi Saleh was the capital of the ancient Ghana Empire, not the Mali Empire. While Timbuktu, Jenne, and Gao flourished as centers of trade and Islamic scholarship within the Mali Empire, Kumbi Saleh predates the Mali Empire. It was a vital trading hub in the earlier Ghana Empire, known for its gold and salt trade.

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  • 22. 

    Today, _______________ is the largest country in West Africa.

    • Libya

    • Mali

    • Egypt

    • Sudan

    Correct Answer
    A. Mali
    Explanation
    Mali is the correct answer because it is currently the largest country in West Africa. It covers a total area of approximately 1,240,192 square kilometers, making it larger than countries like Libya, Egypt, and Sudan in the region. Mali is known for its diverse landscapes, including the Sahara Desert in the north and the Niger River in the south. It is also home to a rich cultural heritage, with ancient cities like Timbuktu that were once important centers of trade and learning.

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  • 23. 

    What natural resource came from the mines south of Mali?

    • Salt

    • Sand

    • Gold

    • Lead

    Correct Answer
    A. Gold
    Explanation
    Gold is the correct answer because historically, the mines south of Mali have been known for their abundant gold deposits. The region of Mali, particularly the area around the Niger River, has been a significant source of gold for centuries. The gold mines in Mali have played a crucial role in the country's economy and have attracted traders and explorers from various parts of the world. The presence of gold in the mines south of Mali has been well-documented and has contributed to the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

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  • 24. 

    Why was the empire of Amali so wealthy?

    • Mali was on the Nile river making trade easy

    • Mali lay across the trade routes between the salt and gold mines

    • Mali was on the trade route between the ocean and North Africa

    • Mali was on the trade route between the sand and salt mines

    Correct Answer
    A. Mali lay across the trade routes between the salt and gold mines
    Explanation
    Mali was able to accumulate wealth because it was strategically located along the trade routes between the salt and gold mines. This allowed them to control and benefit from the trade of these highly valuable resources. The proximity to these mines gave Mali a significant advantage in terms of trade and economic prosperity, leading to the empire's wealth.

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  • 25. 

    Story telling by the Griot was what type of communications?

    • Pictures

    • Written

    • Oral

    • Dance

    Correct Answer
    A. Oral
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "Oral" because the Griot is traditionally known as a West African storyteller who passes down history, culture, and traditions through spoken word. The Griot communicates through oral storytelling, using words, voice, and gestures to convey the message to the audience. This form of communication relies on the spoken word rather than written or visual mediums such as pictures or dance.

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  • 26. 

    When framers, builders, and miners are doing thier jobs, these is examples of _________

    • Economic stratagy

    • Natural resouces

    • Human resources

    • Economic resources

    Correct Answer
    A. Human resources
    Explanation
    The given correct answer is "human resources." When framers, builders, and miners are doing their jobs, they are utilizing their skills, knowledge, and labor to contribute to the production process. These individuals are considered human resources as they are an essential part of the workforce and contribute to the economic output of a country or organization.

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  • 27. 

    Which leader of ancient Mali took a long journey to Mecca with a large group?

    • Sundiata

    • Mansa Musa

    • Timbuktu

    • Sahara

    Correct Answer
    A. Mansa Musa
    Explanation
    Mansa Musa is the correct answer because he was a leader of ancient Mali who embarked on a famous pilgrimage to Mecca with a large group. This journey, known as the Hajj, took place in the 14th century and is well-documented in historical records. Mansa Musa's pilgrimage to Mecca was significant not only for its religious significance but also for the immense wealth and splendor he displayed during his travels, which garnered attention and admiration from the people he encountered along the way.

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  • 28. 

    Which leader of ancient Mali was responsible for making Timbuktu a large trading center?

    • Nixon

    • Mansa Musa

    • Groits

    • Sandiata

    Correct Answer
    A. Mansa Musa
    Explanation
    Mansa Musa was the leader of ancient Mali who was responsible for making Timbuktu a large trading center. He is known for his pilgrimage to Mecca, during which he distributed vast amounts of gold, showcasing the wealth and power of Mali. Mansa Musa's pilgrimage and his generosity attracted scholars, traders, and merchants to Timbuktu, transforming it into a major hub for trade and learning. This contributed to the city's growth and prosperity, making Mansa Musa an influential leader in the development of Timbuktu as a significant trading center.

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  • 29. 

    In the northern part of Mali there is the:

    • Rocky Mountains

    • Niger River

    • Nile River

    • Sahara Desert

    Correct Answer
    A. Sahara Desert
    Explanation
    The Sahara Desert is the correct answer because it is a well-known geographical feature in the northern part of Mali. The Sahara Desert is the largest hot desert in the world, covering a vast area of northern Africa, including parts of Mali. It is characterized by its arid and dry climate, with little vegetation and extreme temperatures. The presence of the Sahara Desert in the northern part of Mali has significant implications for the region's geography, climate, and the way of life for the people living there.

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  • 30. 

    A hajj is a

    • Deep salt mine

    • Shirt worn by ancient slaves

    • Trip to mecca

    • Way to pack a camel for desert trip

    Correct Answer
    A. Trip to mecca
    Explanation
    A hajj is a trip to Mecca. Mecca is the holiest city in Islam and is the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad. Every year, millions of Muslims from around the world gather in Mecca to perform the hajj, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. During the hajj, pilgrims engage in a series of rituals and prayers, including circling the Kaaba, standing on the plain of Arafat, and throwing pebbles at pillars representing Satan. The hajj is a significant religious journey and is considered a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for those who are physically and financially able to undertake it.

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  • Current Version
  • Oct 25, 2024
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Feb 18, 2009
    Quiz Created by
    Rte66c
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