The Women of Mali: Queens, Traders and Power Behind the Throne
The Mali Empire: The Richest Civilization in History — Fexingo HistoryPlay episode
Show notes
The Mali Empire wasn't just ruled by kings. In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore the overlooked roles of women in one of history's wealthiest civilizations. From the warrior queen Kassi, who led her own cavalry, to the powerful influence of Mansa Musa's mother and the legendary Kanku Musa, they uncover how royal women shaped succession and wielded political power. They also dive into the bustling market life of Timbuktu, where women like Nana Asma'u controlled trade and property. Drawing on the Tarikh al-Sudan and oral traditions, this episode challenges the male-dominated narrative and reveals the matrilineal threads woven into Mali's fabric. Discover the griottes—female griots who preserved history through song—and the legal rights women held under the Kouroukan Fouga. A fresh look at an empire through the eyes of its queens, merchants, and keepers of memory. #MaliEmpire #WomenInHistory #MansaMusa #Kassi #KankuMusa #NanaAsmaU #Griot #Griotte #Timbuktu #KouroukanFouga #WestAfrica #OralTradition #Matrilineal #AfricanQueens #Trade #Slavery #FexingoHistory #History #SundiataKeita #Djenn Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo
