What factor contributed to Songhal's downfall as a powerful empire
There were several factors that contributed to Songhai's downfall as a powerful empire:
1. Internal Weaknesses: Internally, Songhai faced political instability and succession struggles. After the death of Emperor Askia Muhammad, his son Askia Ishaq II faced opposition from other factions within the empire, leading to a power struggle that weakened the central authority and divided the empire.
2. External Attacks: Songhai faced external attacks by rival empires. In 1591, Moroccan forces launched an invasion and defeated Songhai's army at the Battle of Tondibi. The superior firepower of the Moroccan troops, equipped with firearms, proved too much for Songhai's more traditional military forces.
3. Economic Decline: Songhai's economy depended heavily on trade, particularly the trans-Saharan trade routes. The decline of these trade routes due to the rise of new maritime trade routes with Europe and the decline of gold and salt trade in the region, weakened Songhai's economic power.
4. Islamic Religious Divisions: Songhai was a Muslim empire, but it faced divisions between different Islamic sects. The rivalry between the Sunni Muslim elites, who controlled the empire, and the growing influence of Muslim scholars from the Maliki school of law sparked tensions and weakened the overall unity of the empire.
5. Lack of Technological Advancements: Songhai lagged behind in terms of technological advancements, particularly in warfare. While other empires, such as the Moroccan forces, had access to firearms, Songhai relied on more traditional weapons and military tactics. This put them at a disadvantage in battle.
Overall, a combination of internal power struggles, external attacks, economic decline, religious divisions, and lagging technology contributed to the downfall of Songhai as a powerful empire.