Sonni Ali facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sunni Ali |
|
|---|---|
| of the Songhai Empire, 15th ruler of the Sunni dynasty | |
| King of Songhai | |
| Reign | 1464 – 1492 |
| Successor | Sunni Baru |
| Sunni Dynasty | |
| Reign | 1464 – 1492 |
| Predecessor | Sunni Suleiman |
| Successor | Sunni Baru |
| Born | Ali Kolon |
| Died | 1492 |
| Religion | Traditional African Islam |
Sonni Ali (also known as Sunni Ali Ber) was the first king of the powerful Songhai Empire in western Africa. He ruled for many years, from about 1464 to 1492. He was the 15th ruler from the Sonni family line. During Sonni Ali's time, the Songhai Empire grew to be even stronger than the Mali Empire. His armies took control of several important cities, like Timbuktu in 1468 and Djenné in 1475. His clever battle plans helped make the empire much bigger.
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Sonni Ali's Rise to Power
Before Sonni Ali took Timbuktu in 1468, the city was controlled by Tuareg raiders. These raiders often attacked and stole from others. Sonni Ali conquered the Tuareg people and brought them under his rule. This gave his kingdom control over the important Saharan trade routes. These routes were like ancient highways for trading goods across the desert.
After taking Timbuktu, Sonni Ali and his army moved south. Their next goal was to conquer the port city of Djenné, which was located on the Niger River. The city of Djenné finally gave up after a very long siege. A siege is when an army surrounds a city and tries to force its people to surrender.
Leadership and Military Might
Sonni Ali said he was a Muslim, but he also respected the traditional animist beliefs of his people. He made sure not to separate himself from these older traditions.
He was known for having a very organized and strong military. His army had soldiers who fought on horseback, known as cavalry. It also had many soldiers who fought on foot. Sonni Ali even built a fleet of ships. These ships helped him control the important ports and trade along the Niger River.
Battles and Legacy
In 1480, Sonni Ali attacked the Mossi Kingdoms located south of the Niger River. He did not fully conquer the Mossi people. However, he was able to stop their empire from growing further. He also fought a successful war against several states of the Fulani.
Sonni Ali's reign ended in 1492. On his way home from a war, he drowned in a river. His leadership greatly expanded the Songhai Empire and made it a major power in West Africa.
Images for kids
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Extent of the Songhai Empire, around the year 1500.
See also
In Spanish: Sonni Alí para niños
