Tunka Manin facts for kids

Tunka Manin (born 1010, died 1078) was an important ruler of the Ghana Empire. He ruled from 1062 to 1076 C.E.. Tunka Manin was the last king of the Ghana Empire before a group called the Almoravids took control. We know about him from a writer named al-Bakri, who visited the Ghana kingdom. Al-Bakri said Tunka Manin was a "lover of justice" and kind to Muslims.

Tunka Manin's Rule

Tunka Manin became king after his mother and his brother, King Basi. As king, he made all the big decisions for his empire. He helped solve arguments and made sure things were fair. Tunka Manin also had helpers, called ministers, who collected taxes and created laws.

Protecting the Empire

During his time as ruler, Tunka Manin had a very large army. These brave warriors were responsible for defending the kingdom from any threats. They worked hard to keep the people and the land safe.

Challenges and Changes

Later in his rule, the Ghana Empire faced many challenges. One big reason for these problems was how the government worked. Also, there were religious differences, especially with the Almoravids. Tunka Manin himself was not Muslim, and there were disagreements between Muslims and non-Muslims in the empire.

A leader named Ibn Yacin started the Almoravid movement. They began a long fight against Tunka Manin's kingdom. This struggle lasted for more than ten years. For a short time, the Almoravids even took control of the kingdom.

The Almoravid Conquest

Tunka Manin became king in 1062, and like the ruler before him, he chose not to become Muslim. The Almoravids were missionaries who wanted to spread their faith. They were upset that the previous king had refused to convert. So, they began to invade the Ghana Empire under their leader, Abu Bakr ibn Umar.

The Fall of Kumbi Saleh

The writer al-Bakri mentioned that Tunka Manin had a huge army of about 200,000 warriors. However, in 1076, the Almoravids successfully attacked and took over the empire's capital city, Kumbi Saleh.

After this, Tunka Manin continued to rule, but he had to obey the Almoravids. He also had to pay them a special tax called a tribute. The Almoravids were finally forced out in 1087, and Abu Bakr was killed. But the Ghana Empire was much weaker after these events. Many areas that used to be part of the empire became independent. Islam, which had become popular among the upper class, was now being taught to everyone. Many people who followed older religions moved away from the empire.

Tunka Manin's Legacy

Tunka Manin is remembered for caring about the people in his communities. He was also very successful in improving the empire's economy. He helped trade grow a lot, especially the trade of salt.

People believed Tunka Manin had a special, almost magical, power around him. He used this to encourage his people to protect him well. Tunka Manin was also known for showing off his wealth. He would dress in fancy clothes decorated with gold, ivory, and other valuable materials.