Devaluing Gold
Mansa Musa, the legendary ruler of the Mali Empire in the 14th century, embarked on a historic pilgrimage to Mecca that would forever alter the economic landscape of several Mediterranean cities. Known for his immense wealth, Mansa Musa was determined to showcase his opulence during the journey. He distributed vast amounts of gold to the poor along the way, creating a spectacle of generosity that left a lasting impact.
However, this excessive distribution of gold had unintended consequences. In many Mediterranean cities, particularly Cairo and Medina, the sudden influx of gold caused a prolonged period of inflation and economic disruption, devaluing gold for over a decade. Mansa Musa’s generosity, while admirable, inadvertently triggered financial instability, leaving a noteworthy chapter in history.