Sundiata, a young but crippled Prince, was left to die by Sumanguru, King of Ghana, when Sumanguru invaded and defeated Kangaba, Sundiata’s kingdom. Sundiata’s eleven brothers were killed in the raid.
By some extraordinary stroke of luck, Sundiata managed to recover his health and developed skills as a hunter and warrior. However, the reigning King perceived him as a potential threat, and exiled him.
Sundiata later orchestrated a triumphant return to his homeland through a military campaign, seizing the throne for himself. Within a year, he vanquished Sumanguru, the King of Ghana who had previously invaded his kingdom and slain his brothers.
Sundiata’s military prowess was so remarkable that he bestowed upon himself the title of “Mari Djata,” which, translated, means Lion Prince. Mari Djata, to signify his strength and leadership.
He succeeded in transforming the small state of Kangaba into the Mali Empire.