When it comes to comprehending the wealth of the West African emperor, Mansa Musa circa 1324 C.E., the net worth of present-day billionaires such as Bill Gates and Jess Bezos becomes like child’s play.
Economists have determined that Emperor Mansa Musa I, who reigned over the Malian Empire, most likely positions as the richest person in history. According to history, Musa’s great-uncle was Sundiata Keita, who founded the Malian Empire.
Musa got his wealth primarily through trading gold and salt, which were found in abundance in West Africa at the time. He also used the money to strengthen the country’s cultural centres, particularly Timbuktu, which he annexed in 1324.
It was when Musa made his Hajj to Mecca — an important part of the Muslim religion, which was very widespread in the region at this point in history — that the rest of the world became aware of the extent of his wealth.
Musa and his entourage gave gold away to people in the streets. The gold he spent circulated, and there was so much of it, that the value actually went down. In fact, he single-handedly controlled the price of gold in the Mediterranean.
Musa used most of his wealth to build a great number of mosques (legend says he built one every Friday of his reign), the most famous of which is the Djinguereber Mosque.
He also commissioned many universities throughout the kingdom — many of which, along with the mosques, are still standing today, some 700 years later.
Musa ruled for about 25 years according to historian’s best estimates: they believe he died in 1332, at which time his son inherited the throne.
When adjusted for inflation, Mansa Musa’s wealth is believed to have been around $400 billion. The only person who comes close to Musa’s wealth is John D. Rockefeller, whom economists believe amassed a worth of around $336 billion.
The next person who stacks up in line is Jeff Bezos with a net worth of $184.9 billion. Bill Gates follows immediately after with his total wealth of $116.1 billion.
