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Massina Empire

Mali’s last master calligrapher escapes violence in Timbuktu with ancient manuscripts in tow

Before the French came in and pushed the Islamic militants out of the towns in northern Mali, many of the country’s historic artifacts and cultural history were threatened. But because of the forethought of some Malians, including calligrapher Boubacar Sadek, the country’s manuscripts were saved. For now.

Mali’s Last Master Calligrapher

Arts, Culture & Media

Mali’s Festival in the Desert Wins a Freedom of Musical Expression Award

Arts, Culture & Media

French Troops Gird for More Battle in Northern Mali

Conflict & Justice

Mali: Islamists Gone for Now in Gao, Security Concerns Remain

French Convoy Delivers Supplies to Northern Mali

Conflict & Justice

A French-led convoy carrying food and military supplies arrived in the northern Malian town of Gao. Reporter Laura Lynch was with them. She’s covering the story for The World and the CBC.

Timbuktu Locals Said to Have Rescued Ancient Texts

Arts, Culture & Media

Initial reports from Timbuktu suggested that tens of thousands of priceless documents had been destroyed when Islamist rebels burned down the city’s Ahmed Baba Institute as they fled. It now appears that locals saved at least some of the documents.

Mali Conflict Shifts to Timbuktu

Global Politics

French and Malian forces reportedly entered the historic city of Timbuktu, and Islamist militants who had been in control of the city may have fled.

The World

Extremists Shatter Historic Shrines in Timbuktu

Arts, Culture & Media

Militants in Timbuktu are attacking tombs and at least one mosque that they say contravene Islamaic law. Dr Shamil Jeppie tells host Marco Werman why centuries of religious tolerance in Mali appear to be breaking down.

The World

World Hertiage Site Under Threat in Mali

Conflict & Justice

Last month’s military coup in Mali set several things in motion prompting the head of UNESCO to state that a World Heritage site held by rebels in the north may be threatened.