The Epic of Sundiata

The Epic of Sundiata is a West African oral tradition that tells the story of Sundiata Keita, the founder of the Mali Empire in the 13th century. It narrates his early struggles, including exile, and his eventual rise to power through bravery and wisdom. As a unifier, he defeats enemies, establishes a prosperous empire, and is celebrated as a legendary hero. The epic highlights themes of perseverance, leadership, and cultural identity, serving as both historical record and moral lesson, and plays a vital role in preserving Mali’s rich heritage.