Abubakar II of the Mali Empire is a legendary figure believed to have been a ruler of Mali before Mansa Musa in the early 14th century. His story is mainly known through oral traditions and the account given by Mansa Musa during his pilgrimage to Mecca in 1324.
Who Was Abubakar II?
Abubakar II, also called Abu Bakr II, is said to have been a Malian ruler obsessed with exploration. Instead of focusing on expanding his empire in Africa, he is believed to have been fascinated by what lay beyond the Atlantic Ocean.
The Famous Atlantic Expedition
According to Mansa Musa’s account to scholars in Cairo:
- First Expedition: Abubakar II sent 200 ships to explore the Atlantic Ocean. Only one returned, with the sailors claiming that the others were pulled away by strong currents.
- Second Expedition: Not satisfied, Abubakar II gathered 2,000 ships, this time leading the expedition himself, along with thousands of men, food, and supplies.
- Disappearance: Neither Abubakar II nor his fleet ever returned, leading to the belief that he may have either perished at sea or reached an unknown land.
Did Abubakar II Reach the Americas?
Some historians and researchers speculate that Malian sailors might have reached the Americas before Columbus, citing:
- Possible West African influences in pre-Columbian America.
- Reports of Native American tribes having traditions of black-skinned visitors.
- Similarities in boat-building techniques and language patterns.
However, there is no solid archaeological proof of this theory, and mainstream historians remain skeptical.
Legacy
With Abubakar II gone, Mansa Musa ascended the throne and led Mali to its golden age, making it one of the richest empires in history.
