Question

1. how might the people of the middle east have viewed the west african states before mansa musas visit?
2. how did this visit influence the way europeans, asians, and north africans thought about west africa?

Explanation:

(for question 2):
Before Mansa Musa's visit, Middle Easterners likely had limited or stereotypical views of West African states. Trade connections (like trans - Saharan trade) might have given them some knowledge of West African resources (e.g., gold), but they may not have recognized the wealth and sophistication of empires like Mali. West African states could have been seen as less developed or as just sources of raw materials, rather than complex, wealthy societies with advanced governance and culture.

(for question 3):
Mansa Musa’s visit (especially his Hajj with great displays of wealth) changed perceptions. For Europeans, Asians, and North Africans, it revealed West Africa (specifically Mali) as extremely wealthy (due to gold), with a sophisticated society. It spurred interest in trade (seeking West African resources) and exploration. Europeans later sought sea routes to West Africa, and the image of West Africa as a land of great wealth influenced colonial ambitions and trade relations. Asians and North Africans also revised their views, seeing West Africa as a more significant and prosperous region worthy of increased trade and diplomatic engagement.

Answer:

(for question 2):
Before Mansa Musa’s visit, people in the Middle East likely viewed West African states with limited understanding. They might have seen them as sources of trade goods (like gold via trans - Saharan trade) but underestimated their wealth, sophistication, and the advanced nature of empires like Mali, holding more stereotypical or under - informed views.