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Mali is a large landlocked country in West Africa bordered by Algeria, Niger, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Guinea, Senegal, and Mauritania. Its capital, Bamako, is located along the Niger River and serves as the political and economic center. Historically, Mali was home to powerful empires that controlled major trade routes across the Sahara, including the Mali Empire, which became known for its wealth, scholarship, and commercial influence. Cities such as Timbuktu developed as important centers of learning and trade. Following a period of French colonial rule, Mali gained independence in 1960. Today the economy relies on agriculture, livestock, mining, and trade, with gold being one of the country's most significant exports. Large distances, desert conditions in the north, and infrastructure challenges influence development. Mali's history highlights the importance of trade networks, cultural exchange, and regional connections across West Africa.