The Significance of Timbuktu as a Learning Centre in the Mali Empire

History
Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
7 questions
~14 mins
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The Significance of Timbuktu as a Learning Centre in the Mali Empire

Subject: HistoryGrade: Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
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Grade Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
A

Introduction to Timbuktu's Learning Centre

Source A: Historical account of Timbuktu

'Timbuktu became a renowned centre of learning during the Mali Empire, attracting scholars from across Africa and beyond. Its mosques, libraries, and schools fostered the spread of knowledge and Islamic learning.' Provenance: Excerpt from a history book on West African civilizations.

1.
Explain why Timbuktu became a famous learning centre in the Mali Empire. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Compare the political and religious factors that contributed to Timbuktu's reputation as a learning centre. (6 marks)
[6 marks]
B

Factors Contributing to Timbuktu's Significance

Source B: Excerpt from a scholar's analysis

'Economic wealth from trade allowed Timbuktu to build libraries and mosques, making it a hub for scholars. Social factors, such as a diverse community, also fostered the exchange of ideas.' Provenance: Academic journal article on West African trade and learning.

1.
Categorize the factors mentioned in Source B as Political, Social, Economic, or Religious. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Which factor do you think was MORE significant in making Timbuktu a learning centre? Justify your answer with evidence. (6 marks)
[6 marks]
C

Ranking and Justification of Factors

Source C: Historical perspective

'The rise of Timbuktu as a learning centre was primarily due to religious devotion, supported by economic prosperity and political stability.' Provenance: Expert historian's summary of Timbuktu's development.

1.
Rank the following factors in order of importance in making Timbuktu a learning centre: Religious, Economic, Political, Social. Justify your ranking. (8 marks)
[8 marks]
2.
Outline how the combination of these factors made Timbuktu a unique centre of learning in medieval Africa. (8 marks)
[8 marks]
D

Reflection and Critical Thinking

Reflect on the significance of Timbuktu's learning centres today. How do historical factors influence modern perceptions of Timbuktu? Write your answer in a paragraph.

1.
Explain how the historical factors discussed contribute to Timbuktu's legacy today. (6 marks)
[6 marks]

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Details

Created
1/1/2026
Updated
1/1/2026
Type
worksheet