Looking closely at Abraham Cresques’ map, I noticed that Africa is represented as a place of wealth, power, and importance. At the center sits Mansa Musa, the ruler of the Mali Empire, holding a large gold nugget. What stood out to me was that this wasn't the only gold depicted in Africa, suggesting the mapmaker recognized the continent's valuable resources and economic significance.

I found it interesting that Africa was not simply portrayed as an unfamiliar or empty land, but as a place with powerful leaders, established kingdoms, and connections to trade. However, the emphasis on gold also makes me wonder whether the mapmaker viewed Africa primarily through the lens of its wealth and what it could offer Europeans.

This activity reminds me that maps are not neutral. They reflect the knowledge, interests, and perspectives of the people who create them. As I develop my kindergarten curriculum, I want my students to see Africa beyond its natural resources and recognize the people, communities, leadership, and rich histories that have always existed across the continent.