Timeline of Mali

Chronology

14 events spanning the history of Mali. BCE/CE dating.

1. 146 BCE – 31 BCE

   Roman conquest of North Africa; Berbers’ southern migration begins.

   Roman conquest of North Africa; Berbers’ southern migration begins.

2. 1100

   City of Tombouctou founded as a small trading center along the Niger River.

   City of Tombouctou founded as a small trading center along the Niger River.

3. 1230

   Sundiata, a Mandinka prince, defeats the Susu and founds the kingdom of Mali.

   Sundiata, a Mandinka prince, defeats the Susu and founds the kingdom of Mali.

4. 1325

   Mali captures Gao.

   Mali captures Gao.

5. 1336

   Timbuktu becomes part of the Mali Empire.

   Timbuktu becomes part of the Mali Empire, now at the height of its power, and starts its own era of prosperity.

6. 1359

   Mali divided by civil war.

   Mali divided by civil war.

7. 1433

   Timbuktu captured and controlled by Berbers.

   Timbuktu captured and controlled by Berbers.

8. 1450

   Mali absorbed by Songhay; beginning of Renaissance in Europe.

   Mali absorbed by Songhay; beginning of Renaissance in Europe.

9. 1473

   Djenne surrenders after seven-year siege by Mali.

   Djenne surrenders after seven-year siege by Mali.

10. 1889

    French invasion and take over of Mali.

    French invasion and take over of Mali, the French Sudan becomes part of the Federation of French West Africa.