The African Empire of Mali was an empire located in West Africa that existed from 1230 to 1645. It was founded by the Malinke people and was one of the largest empires in West African history. The empire was known for its wealth, which was derived from its control of the trans-Saharan trade routes. It also had a strong military and was able to expand its territory through conquest. The empire reached its peak under the rule of Mansa Musa, who is widely regarded as one of the wealthiest rulers in history.