Family: Mali Empire Click to see full answer. In this regard, how did Mansa Musa gain his fortune?As many a late-night infomercial will tell you, there are lots of ways to attain wealth. Musa got his primarily through trading gold and salt, which were found in abundance in West Africa at the time. He also used the money to strengthen the country’s cultural centers, particularly Timbuktu, which he annexed in 1324.Likewise, is Mansa Musa the richest person in history? With an estimated fortune of $131bn (£99bn) he is the wealthiest man in modern history. But he is by no means the richest man of all time. That title is believed to belong to Mansa Musa, the 14th Century West African ruler who was so rich his generous handouts wrecked an entire country’s economy. Keeping this in consideration, what did Mansa Musa accomplish? Mansa Musa was known for being both the wealthiest leader in world history and for being a deeply devout Muslim. On his pilgrimage to Mecca, known as the Hajj, he brought thousands of servants and tons of wealth to distribute to the needy and to give as gifts to world leaders.How is Mansa Musa?Mansa Mūsā, either the grandson or the grandnephew of Sundiata, the founder of his dynasty, came to the throne in 1307. In the 17th year of his reign (1324), he set out on his famous pilgrimage to Mecca. It was this pilgrimage that awakened the world to the stupendous wealth of Mali.