Abstract This paper discusses the health and social issues of the Saharan country, Mali. The paper presents statistics relevant to Mali, portraying the extremely low level of adult literacy and the high rate of AIDS. The education system in Mali is described as severely inadequate. The paper examines the financial difficulties facing Mali, explaining their harsh effect on the health system of the country.
From the Paper "However, at the same time it a nation that boasts of a rich and hoary tradition. It is popular as a country marked by its multihued varied populace and harmonic tunes. Currently, it is confronted with a massive menace like AIDS, Noma and a host of tropical diseases. Mali has the world's lowest adult literacy rate of less than 25 percent. The country's education system is inadequately formed, especially at the primary stage. A United Nations report published in 1991 revealed that females are given less than 30 percent of the schooling in comparison to males in respect of the average number of years of school attended. Health specialists at the global level disapprove female circumcision as it is harmful to physical as well as psychological well-being of an individual."
Abstract This paper examines how the Empire of Mali, from the beginning, has had a very diverse population, often united by a powerful king or "mansa" as they are referred to by the native populations. It looks at how religion has become an integral part of society in that it can lay down guidelines for moral ethics within the community, as well as facilitating social interaction in the form of rituals. It also discusses how this tight knit church/community relationship has continued to thrive all the way to the modern day Republic of Mali and is evident in their governmental structure today.
From the Paper "African religions, despite their clearly defined territorial borders, do seem to share some remarkable similarities when it comes to religious beliefs and practices. Ancient Malian religions as well as the majority of other African nations of the time period practiced a non evangelical religious system in that they did not try to recruit or convert any outsiders into their religious system. It generally had an ethnic based system of worship, meaning that to be part of the religion meant to be a part of their society. A good example of this is the Xhosa tribe that once lived inside of the Zulu territory but continued to practice their Xhosa religious beliefs and therefore was not considered part of the Zulu but instead maintained their own identity as Xhosa tribesmen separate from the other local area tribes."
Abstract This essay examines the role of women in Ancient Mali society through the legend of ?Sundiata.? It also briefly examines the role of legends as an appropriate source for a historian. The author portrays the use of an oral folk tale as a social source.
From the Paper "In any society with a fairly low literacy rate, oral tradition becomes the most important way to pass down the history of that society, and it generally plays an important part in the education of the members of that society. This can be seen in virtually any ancient culture: Homer's Iliad, the legends revolving around King Arthur, even large parts of the Judea-Christian Torah and Bible are all meant not only to entertain, but to impart tradition, moral lessons, and history to younger generations, who, in turn, will pass it down to their children and grandchildren. Sundiata, an African tale about the great king of that same name in the ancient empire of Mali, is another epic story in this tradition of mythical historical tales."
Abstract This paper explains that, although purpose of this epic book, ?Sundiata: An Epic of Old Mali?, is to tell a story for entertainment, it also teaches about the history of Africa, proving that Africa does have a history, and it does have culture and adventure. The author points out that the theme of religion is complicated by the references to both animal gods and magical powers and to Islam. The paper relates that the book depicts a male-oriented society in Western Africa, where women are the child care givers and tend the animals and the gardens, while men are the hunters, managers of family matters, and keepers of the structure of the house.
From the Paper "Having more than one wife is another aspect of the gender culture in their ancient society. Polygamy was practiced amongst the kings in this book. Sogolon and her children lived in an old hut outside of the palace because the queen mother Sassouma Berete kicked them out after the king died. Against the king's wishes, her son Dankaran Touman was proclaimed king instead of Sundiata. Having many wives created a conflict when more than boy was born by more than one of the king's wives. The king's first wife was bitterly jealous and was the reason for Sogolon and her children having to go into exile. The queen mother took on almost a male gender role in this story because she wanted her son to the king."
Abstract This paper explains that, at its height around 1400 A.D., the empire of Mali, extending from the Atlantic African coast to east of Gao, was a center of commerce, culture and education. The author points out that medieval Malian art in all of its different forms had a defined role and that function was to reflect, express and highlight daily life, customs and ideas in their world. The paper relates that in addition to the worldly objects of daily life were the exquisitely fashioned articles of religion, such as headdresses, masks and statues, which were all important in the worshipping of Malian deities and chiefs.
From the Paper "Aside from the numerous items in Mali life that played a role in work or worship, there were also those that merely indicated one's standing in society. Instead of money (in medieval Mali, gold) being the only measurement of prestige, jewelry, certain types of furniture, and even corporal markings (tattoos, piercings) served as a way of showing one's role in Mali society. While many of these articles did indicate social standing, they also could play a role in rituals. For instance, a necklace could denote prestige, ward off evil forces, and adorn the body all at once. Malian jewelry, one of the most esteemed crafts, was then and is now renowned throughout Africa and the world. Using the resources around them (gold, diamonds, other precious metals and gemstones), Mali artisans would fashion necklaces, earrings, bracelets and brooches, and especially rings. These works of art would not only have deep spiritual meaning - one necklace symbolized the sun spirit - but could also indicate how wealthy a person was, what their occupation was, and even whether or not they were married."
Abstract The early history of Mali is preserved in numerous ways, through oral history in Africa and through the writings of early Muslim scholars, for example. Each of these methods carries with it an obvious measure of impartiality; yet, in an age where more "objective" modern history is unavailable, these early accounts are all that we have in determining Mali's past. How should these histories be treated, and in what ways are they valid? Using the history of Mali, this paper discusses the various ways in which the past is recorded, and the validity of each of these as determinants of what we would consider "objective history".
From the Paper "There is no perhaps no subject as vital to individual and cultural identity, and yet often so curiously resistant to impartiality, than history. Even modern scholars, working in an age of fierce objectivity, cannot agree on such a seemingly simple issue as the racial composition of ancient Egypt or the spread of medieval Islam, and wage war over major aspects of events as recent as Vietnam. The reasons for this disagreement, naturally, often involve the individual beliefs of historians, including their religious and cultural values, their desire for a history that glorifies their ancestry, and many other factors that could more commonly be termed "biases." These biases have an immense impact on how the stark framework of historical fact is colored by individual viewpoints, a process that often results in the creation of many clashing accounts, each with its own unique perspective and intent. This issue is particularly exemplified by the struggle to interpret the history of African kingdoms such as Mali, whose many historians have produced a dazzling - if complicated - array of written and oral records. Examination of these various records and the biases within them provides a window into a globally-significant ancient civilization, and, perhaps more importantly, helps us understand the role of biases and their importance in our understanding of the ancient world."
Abstract This paper outlines the expansion aspirations of Riordan Manufacturing and discusses how the company's proposed penetration into Canada and Mali is complicated by the social, political and legal characteristics of each country. In particular, the paper looks at the opportunities and risks each country offers, as well as how these respective opportunities and risks may impact Riordan's prospects for success. Finally, the paper looks at how some companies have prospered when moving into either Canada or Mali and what lessons Riordan can derive from their examples.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Country Analysis: Canada, Mali and Riordan Manufacturing's Expansion Plans
From the Paper "In closing, the last several pages have offered a brief profile of Canada and of Mali. In so doing, what has become apparent is that Canada is a much more attractive expansion choice for Riordan Manufacturing and one which must be pursued aggressively. While Mali is not without opportunity - the country is teeming with people and undoubtedly wants to tap into specialized manufacturing technology from the West anyway it can - the reality is that the country simply offers too many challenges politically, socially and legally. Ultimately, Riordan Manufacturing should look to Vancouver, BC, as its best chance for optimal profitability and success."
Abstract The discovery of the New World opened new markets for European colonizers, as well as new sources wealth. In the Americas, the rich and abundant land meant much wealth could be generated through industries such as agriculture. The only missing factor was a cheap source of labor in order to clear and farm the land. For this purpose, European colonizers turned to Africa. The kingdoms of Mali and Ghana were particular sources of slaves, since those kingdoms already had a system of slavery in place. This paper examines the cultural and political history of the kingdoms of Ghana, Mali, and Songhay. It examines how the systems of slavery in these kingdoms differed significantly from the system of slavery in the Americas. Furthermore, the paper looks at how the African slaves sought to preserve their African heritage, despite the different system of slavery predominant in the New World.
From the Paper "Another significant difference lies in the end of slave status. In the African kingdoms, slaves could earn their freedom through work. If they satisfied their debts, they could be removed from slavery. As an example, Sundjata rose from the ranks of slave to become ruler of the Mali Empire. Among the Songhay, slaves were treated not as outcasts, but as part of the extended family (Davidson 209)."
Abstract This paper determines the kind of influence the spread of Islam had on the daily life of inhabitants of the West African region. It asks how the spread of Islam affects the development of leadership and society in West Africa. The paper first looks at the concept of history to Islam and then focuses on three major empires during West African history before coming to a conclusion.
Outline
The Spread of Islam in West Africa
The Philosophy of History in Islam
The Spread of Islam into West Africa
Islam in Ancient Ghana
The Almoravids
The Empire of Mali The Empire of Songhay
Conclusion
From the Paper "The fundamental principle of Islamic history comes from its ideas on ?community,? which it derives from Islam, ??this community formed the "Islamic society" and built the "Islamic civilization" on the foundation of basic ideas. The essence of its thought is a humanitarian message to the world calling for freedom, justice, truth and equality.?(1) Islam in its true understanding is a "way of life" and a large frame for a comprehensive and complete ideology that links man with God, the universe and life. Islam in the movement of history is not the Muslim state nor is it Islamic civilization or the Arab nation, except insofar as it is related to that Islam itself. Islam appears through its history as a ?living being,? which has two ideals ? thought and civilization, which renews its cells and moves through periods of strength and weakness. Its constant movement is always forward as it the nature of a living being. (2)"
Abstract The paper examines an expansion project that would benefit Riordan Manufacturing and provides the rationale as to why this expansion project was selected. The paper provides a regional analysis of areas in which the expansion can occur. The paper shows how British Columbia is ideal for use as the principle site for expansion initiatives undertaken by Riordan Manufacturing while Mali, the second potential site, has too many limitations to be a viable choice.
Outline:
Introduction
Expansion within Riordan Manufacturing
Identification of Regions
Conclusion
From the Paper "Currently, the majority of management initiatives within Riordan Manufacturing have been isolated to Human Resources and through cultivating strong relationships with customers. The company developed and implemented a two-year plan that would significantly increase its earning revenue through sales by 2006, with an end goal of reaching the $50 million revenue mark. As the fiscal year has not yet concluded, there is still time to reach this goal; however, despite economic slowdown in the second and third quarters, the company remains positioned to meet this mark."
Tags: regions, partnerships, revenues, British, Columbia, Mali
Abstract The paper reviews the relative technological sophistication, infrastructural status and demographics of Mali and Canada in order to determine which nation offers the greatest prospect of success for Riordan Manufacturing's expansion goals. The paper shows how Canada offers a far more literate pool of workers, greater technological capacity and innovation, a more predictable work culture and an older, more affluent consumer base which has the need and the accumulated wealth to purchase Riordan's products in large numbers.
From the Paper "Riordan Manufacturing's proposed overseas expansion into Mali and into Canada is one which, because of the scale and cost involved, demands that special attention be granted to a host of factors - technology, infrastructure and demographics being (arguably) chief among them. As mentioned in previous papers, Riordan Manufacturing is a company that specializes in plastic injection molding. Even more specifically, Riordan describes itself as being a company that possesses state-of-the-art capabilities and which produces innovative plastic designs prized the world over (Gobeli 2007). Simply put, this is a company that needs skilled workers in abundance in any overseas location and this is also a company that needs to situate itself in countries that have strong infrastructures, stable political environments, and upper-echelon technology if its international expansion is to be profitable and successful."
Tags: technologicy, sophistication, infrastructure, demographics, innovation, consumer, base
Abstract This paper presents the writer's response to "Visual Griots of Mali", a photographic exhibit,featuring raw pictures of a naked woman who has just given birth and is sitting in the pool of blood from the delivery. The writer relates that, after living for some time in New York City and witnessing poverty, overexposure has stripped her of her original interest in others and replaced it with apathy as she became too selfish to care. The writer then describes an incident in China where a taxi driver expressed similar feelings of being overexposed to poverty.
From the Paper "Unconsciously I spoke to the little girl in English, meaning she couldn't have understood my words. But, she understood me because there was an undeniable connection-- indescribable and unfamiliar to words. I felt it when I accidentally touched her hand and later made eye contact with her. Her eyes spoke for her. I saw something in them that pulled me in and stirred my emotions.
"My thoughts become suddenly interrupted by the taxi driver's remarks, "People always beg for food or money in this city. Just ignore them like everyone else.""
Abstract This paper discusses how the culture and history of sub-Saharan Africa is rich and deep, with ties in countless other civilizations, throughout time. In particular, the paper looks at how ancient sub-Saharan African art was highly influential on the art of the world, especially the surrounding areas including Europe and Northern Africa, which was mainly colonized by European empires throughout it's history. It also looks at how the profound effect of both ancient and modern African art is visible in many ancient art movements, and many current ones. The paper also compares the art of the different cultures such as Nok, Yoruba, Ife and Mali.
From the Paper "As previously mentioned, evidence of ancient African art has been dated back to as far as eight thousand BCE, which is just under five thousand years before the unification of the Upper and Lower ancient Egyptian civilization. The first Saharan cave paintings were made in a prosperous time for the climate of Africa; the paintings depict the Sahara as a grassy plain, with plentiful amounts of wild game. The culture of this time period was that of a hunting style, with small villages that focused on wild game as its main source of food. The way of life continued basically uninterrupted until the climate began to change around four thousand BCE. Quickly becoming more arid, the Sahara began to dry, and grassy plains of the past were becoming what we now associate with the Sahara; that of a dry, uninhabitable climate. "
Abstract This paper looks at how the religion of Islam, Western modern culture and ancient African cultures and traditions all come together to create the "African culture". The writer claims that there is no one such culture and there is a patchwork of many cultures all fusing together. The countries of Mali and Nigeria are analyzed as an example.
From the Paper "From the distance of the New World, Africa may appear to be a relatively homogeneous country, black and exotic and poor and fighting a losing battle against AIDS. But Africa is no more homogeneous than is the United States. It is a fascinating and ever-changing blend of cultural values and social institutions, many of them shaped by the intersection of three essential forces: indigenous beliefs and values, Western cultural values and practices, and Islam. This paper explores how these three come together in Nigeria and Mali."
From the Paper "This report surveys post.independence developments in the former French colony of Mali in west.central Africa. The resources for economic development available to Mali are considered, and the role of socialist planning in stifling Mali's development is traced.
Mali is an African country that seldom appears in the Western mass media, though it is one of Africa's larger nations geographically, with a territory of 480,000 square miles, and had by the middle 1970s a population of 5.6 million people (International Monetary Fund [IMF], 1977, pp. 106.7). A former French colony, Mali originally entered independence in 1959 as part of a "Mali Federation," amid high hopes and grandiose plans for socialist development. A generation later, however, Mali remains mired in poverty and underdevelopment . even a degree of (...)"
