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The Mali Empire faced a decline and eventual collapse due to a combination of internal and external factors. While historical details can vary, some key factors contributing to the end of the Mali Empire include:

1. Internal Conflict: Internal strife, including power struggles, succession disputes, and conflicts among ruling elites, weakened the stability of the Mali Empire. Competition for the throne and disputes over leadership succession led to internal divisions.

2. Economic Decline: The Mali Empire was heavily dependent on trade, particularly the trans-Saharan trade routes. Changes in trade patterns, the rise of alternative trade routes, and economic decline contributed to the weakening of the empire's financial stability.

3. Invasion by Songhai: The Songhai Empire, a neighboring state, eventually gained strength and power. In 1435, under the leadership of Sunni Ali, the Songhai Empire launched military campaigns against Mali. The invasion and subsequent battles weakened Mali's military strength and contributed to the decline of its territorial control.

4. External Attacks: In addition to the Songhai invasion, the Mali Empire faced external attacks from various neighboring groups. The empire's military and political challenges made it vulnerable to incursions from different directions.

5. Environmental Factors: Changes in environmental conditions, such as drought and desertification, may have impacted agricultural productivity and contributed to food shortages. Environmental stress could have strained the empire's ability to support its population.

6. Weakened Leadership: The decline in the quality of leadership and governance within the empire played a role. Instances of weak leadership, corruption, and internal dissension weakened the ability of the state to address external threats and maintain internal cohesion.

7. Shifting Trade Routes: Changes in global trade routes, including the redirection of trade away from Mali, reduced the economic prosperity that the empire had previously enjoyed. This economic decline further weakened the empire's ability to sustain itself.

While the Mali Empire faced a decline and eventual collapse, it is essential to note that the process was gradual and multifaceted, involving a combination of internal and external factors that unfolded over an extended period. The empire's decline paved the way for the emergence of other states and empires in the West African region.