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Ismail Mire
Ismail Mire, Shiikhyaale commander poet.jpg
Born 1862 (1862)
Lasadar, Buuhoodle
Died 1950 (aged 87–88)
Occupation Commander-in-chief
Era Scramble for Africa
Organization Darwiish
Spouse(s) Fadumo Habado

Ismail Mire Elmi (Somali: Ismaaciil Mire Cilmi) was a famous Somali poet and military leader. People said his voice and poetry were so powerful that he could inspire his people to either make peace or go to war. He was a very important figure in Somali history.

Ismail Mire's Life and Military Role

Ismail Mire was born in 1862 near Buuhoodle. He grew up in a family of Dhulbahante people. His early life was spent as a nomad, moving with his animals across the Haud plains. He returned to this way of life later in his years.

Mire joined the Darwiish group. He quickly became a top leader in their army. He was in charge of military plans and gathering information. He also made sure the many forts built by the Darwiish were kept in good shape.

Ismail Mire was a very successful general. He led attacks that defeated many enemies. He helped the Darwiish take control of large areas. These areas stretched from Berbera and Las Khorey in the north to Jigjiga in the west and Beledweyne in the south. By 1915, the Darwiish controlled a territory almost as big as modern-day Germany.

One expert group, Pergamon Press, called Ismail Mire "the most important general of the dervish forces." They also said he was a very skilled poet and writer.

Ismail Mire's Poetry

Ismail Mire was known for his powerful poems. His words could inspire people and tell stories of their struggles and hopes. Some of his most famous poems include:

  • Maxaa Xiga
  • Guuguulayhow
  • Iibsi Lacageed
  • Xoogsi
  • Hashii Markab
  • Isma Oga
  • Annagoo Taleex Naal
  • Gelin Dhexe
  • Galow-Kiciye

Before a big battle, the Darwiish would try to get more people to join their cause. For example, in December 1912, a group of 150 Darwiish went to Ainabo. They offered 100 camels to any rifleman or horseman who joined them. This shows how they built their forces.

Legacy

Ismail Mire is remembered as a hero in Somalia. The Ismail Mire International Airport in Buuhoodle is named after him. This shows how important he was to his people.

A book about his life, called Ismaaciil Mire, was written by Ahmed Farah Ali in 1974.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Ismail Mire Elmi para niños

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