Kingdom of Songhai (1009 – 1600)

King Kossi Converted to Islam in 1009 AD and established the Dia Dynasty. Many historians consider this the official start date for the Songhai Empire After converting to Islam, Kossi’s kingdom benefited from increased Muslim control of the Saharan trade routes.

Sunni Ali During the reign of Sunni Ali most of what had been the Ghana and Mali Empires were taken by the Songhai Empire. Sunni Ali captured Timbuktu and along with its great University of Sankore. Sunni Ali also captured the great city of Jenne, and married the Queen of Jenne, Dara.

Muhammad Ture Usurped control of Songhai after Sunni Ali’s death, beginning the Askia Dynasty in 1493. His ruling style was similar to Mansa Musa. Songhai was at the height of the Empire during his reign.

Decline of Songhai After Muhammad Ture’s reign, Songhai began it’s slow decline. At the end of the 16th century, Songhai was invaded by the Sultan of Morocco. By 1600 Songhai was in pieces.