10 Wealthiest Historical Figures That Ever Lived
1. Musa I - £235.12 Billion
Musa I - or Mansa Musa I, which was his proper title - was the ruler of Mali Empire, which controlled much of West Africa during his reign from 1312 to 1337. There isnt a whole lot known about Musa I from western literature, but arabic scholars documented the extravagance of his empire extensively. Musa I embraced Islam, travelled to Mecca, and was instrumental in spreading the religion of Islam throughout Africa. He used his wealth to make the city of Timbuktu the intellectual and commercial heart of Africa, building libraries and universities and attracting scholars from across the Middle East and northern Africa.
During his reign Musas empire might as well have been his own personal bank account, and half of the worlds supply of salt and gold came from his empire, making him the richest man who has ever lived. His fortune was divided amongst his heirs upon his death, but his empire was divided up and conquered soon afterwards.