Chapter 6, Lesson 3, The Songhai Build An Empire

1. Chapter 6, Lesson 3, The Songhai Build An Empire Lesson By: Anna Luna, Casey Wood, and Caroline Malcolm (when you see the red * take notes)

2. Introduction(Just Listen) • Mali was beginning to grow in power. • Until a rival of power took over (Songhai Empire). • Songhai took part in the same trade, which made Ghana and Mali rich. • In the 1300s, Sonhai became so rich and powerful, it drew the attention of mali’s rulers. • Mansa Musa sent an army to attack and conquer the Songhai kingdom.

3. The Birth of the Empire • Mali’s government became weak • Songhai regained their freedom • Before conquered by Mali, leaders of Songhai became Muslims.*

4. Religion • They shared a common religion, many of the Berbers crossed the Sahara and went to West Africa to trade* • Because they were Muslim, Berbers were willing to trade with Songhai, who then became richer *

5. Growth and Conquest • Songhai grew richer from trans-Saharan trade.* • They built an Empire. • Songhai’s growth was responsible for Sunni Ali, he became ruler in 1464.* • Worked hard to make Songhai stronger more powerful. • He conquered wealthy trade cities of Timbuktu and Djenne were part of Songhai.*

6. Growth and Conquest • In 1468, rulers of Mali asked Sunni Ali to help fight off Tuareg invaders.* • After invaders were driven off Ali wanted to keep the city for himself. • Then launched attacks against Djenne, Which he captured five years later.* • Sunni Ali encouraged people to, work together, and build peace between religions.

7. Conclusion • But sadly Sunni Ali died in 1492 • His son, Sunni Beru, took over the Songhai kingdom.