Part 10: The Fall of the Mandinka The Rise of the Mandinka: A Memoir from Ancient Mali

The Mandinka Empire had been a powerful force in West Africa for centuries, but by the late 16th century, it was beginning to decline. The decline was due to a combination of internal and external factors.

Internally, the Mandinka Empire was weakened by a succession of weak rulers, who were unable to maintain the strong central authority that had been established by the previous rulers. This led to a lack of unity among the various Mandinka tribes, and the rise of powerful local leaders who sought to increase their own power and influence.

Externally, the Mandinka Empire was threatened by the expansion of the Songhai Empire, which had been growing in power and influence since the early 15th century. The Songhai Empire was led by the Askia dynasty, which was determined to expand its territory and power. In 1591, the Songhai Empire launched a successful invasion of the Mandinka Empire, and by 1593, the Mandinka Empire had been completely conquered by the Songhai.

The fall of the Mandinka Empire marked the end of an era in West African history. The Mandinka had been a powerful and influential force in the region for centuries, and their decline was a major setback for the region. The Songhai Empire would go on to become the dominant power in West Africa, but the Mandinka would never regain their former glory.