Socio-Political Structure of the Ancient Songhai Empire

Week 3 

TOPIC: Socio-Political Structure of the Ancient Songhai Empire

ii. Askiya Muhammad the Great (AD 1493-1528)

His achievements: Expansion of the empire

Government of the empire

Central government

Regional Administration

Justice system based on Sharia law

Muhammad Ture I, who was one of Sunni Ali's commanders and governors, became the ruler of the ancient Songhai Empire, and under his rule, Islam became the religion of the Songhai Empire. He proved to be a very competent leader as the Songhai Empire further expanded beyond the Middle Niger to the Inland Delta waterways.

He also conquered former Mali territories, bringing them under his rule. Hence, more lands paid tributes, and there was economic growth because Muhammad Ture I adopted an effective…