Abu Bakr (mansa)

Abu Bakr (also rendered as Abu Bakari II) was the ninth mansa (emperor or king) of the Mali Empire, ruling from approximately 1311 to 1312 CE. He is primarily known for purportedly abdicating his throne to explore the Atlantic Ocean, an event documented in a single historical source, the account of al-Umari, a 14th-century Syrian scholar who interviewed Mansa Musa during the latter's famous pilgrimage to Mecca.

According to al-Umari's account, Abu Bakr was fascinated by the ocean and outfitted a large fleet of ships for exploration. He reportedly sent one fleet westward, which never returned. Subsequently, he equipped a second, larger fleet and accompanied it himself, never to be seen again. Mansa Musa then took power.

The historical veracity of Abu Bakr's voyage is debated. Mainstream historians tend to view it as a plausible but unconfirmed event, acknowledging the limitations of the single source and the possibility of embellished or misinterpreted information. However, others have argued that Abu Bakr's voyage reached the Americas, citing circumstantial evidence such as alleged African artifacts discovered in South America and interpretations of pre-Columbian artwork. These theories remain highly controversial and are not supported by the majority of historians and archaeologists.

Regardless of the historical accuracy of the voyage, Abu Bakr's story highlights the ambition, wealth, and seafaring capabilities potentially present within the Mali Empire during the 14th century, sparking ongoing discussions about trans-oceanic contact before Columbus. The lack of further historical evidence makes definitive conclusions about his expedition impossible.