Songhai Empire
Songhai Empire was a black trading state in Africa that reached its peak during the 1400's and 1500's. Songhai began during the 700's, and by the 1400's had more power and wealth than any other west African empire. It extended from the central area of what is now Nigeria to the Atlantic coast and included parts of what are now Burkina Faso, Gambia, Guinea, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, and Senegal. Gao, the capital, stood on the Niger River.
Two kings, Sunni Ali and Askia Muhammad, strengthened the empire more than any other rulers. Sunni Ali ruled from 1464 to 1492 and began a unified system of law and order, central government, and trade. His army conquered Timbuktu and Jenne, two West African trading centers. Askia Muhammad, also known as Askia I or Askia the Great, became king in 1493. Songhai reached its peak under his rule. Askia reorganized the government, expanded trade, and encouraged the people to practice Islam, the religion of the Muslims. His three sons deposed him in 1528. The empire ended in 1591 when a Moroccan army defeated the Songhai in the Battle of Tondibi.
Excerpt adapted from the "Songhai Empire" article, The World Book Encyclopedia © 1999