The Songhai Empire (sometimes spelled Songhay) is regarded by scholars and laymen alike as one of Africa's greatest empires. The Songhai Empire rose to particularly lofty heights in the late 1400s during the magnificent rule of Sunni Ali. During the reign of Sunni Ali most of what was formerly the Ghanaian and Mali Empires were incorporated into the Songhai Empire
the invasion of the Moroccans.
Yes, women in the Songhai Empire held various forms of power and influence. They could engage in trade, own property, and manage businesses, which allowed them to play significant roles in the economy. Additionally, some women held political power, such as the title of "Queen Mother," which granted them a voice in governance and decision-making. Overall, while the extent of their power varied, women in Songhai had notable agency in both social and economic spheres.
Songhai became a powerful empire because they controlled the river and trade with peoples to the north and south. Thus, they started gaining both wealth and power.
The Songhai Empire gained power through a combination of strategic military conquests, control of key trade routes, and the incorporation of neighboring territories. Building on the foundations laid by the Mali Empire, Songhai expanded its influence across West Africa, particularly by seizing the important trade cities of Timbuktu and Gao. The empire also benefited from the lucrative trans-Saharan trade in gold, salt, and other goods, which bolstered its economy and allowed for further expansion and consolidation of power. Additionally, strong leadership, especially under rulers like Sunni Ali and Askia Muhammad, played a crucial role in the empire's rise.
Sunni Ali Ber was seen as the first great ruler of the Songhai Empire, the throne was given to his son Sunni Baru at his death. Muhammad Toure quickly took the throne from Sunni Baru and became the ruler at the height of the Songhai Empire.
In 1420.
c. 1000-1600
trade and conquests; also located on major trading routes and built its empire by conquering neighboring territory
The Songhai Empire, under the leadership of Sunni Ali, refused to pay tribute to the Mali Empire around 1468. This act was a significant turning point, as it marked the beginning of Songhai's rise to power and the decline of Mali's influence in West Africa. The refusal to pay tribute was emblematic of Songhai's ambitions to assert its independence and dominance in the region.
the invasion of the Moroccans.
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Songhai
It began by taking over what was left of Mali and fell when the moroccians invaded it.
Slaves
The Songhai empire controled the gold and salt trade, which gave them their money and power over West Africa.
They used it in trade to increase their wealth and power.
The Songhai Empire no longer exists. It ended in about 1591.