How did the Songhai Empire strengthen Islam?
The Songhai Empire strengthened Islam by adopting it as the official religion of the empire. The rulers of Songhai, beginning with Sunni Ali in the late 15th century, were strong proponents of Islam and actively promoted its spread throughout the empire. They built mosques, established Islamic schools and universities, and appointed Muslim scholars and clerics to positions of influence and power. The empire's legal system was also based on Islamic law, known as Sharia.
Additionally, the Songhai rulers encouraged trade with Muslim merchants and scholars from North Africa and the Middle East, which helped to further spread Islamic teachings and practices within the empire. By embracing Islam and incorporating its principles into their governance and culture, the Songhai Empire solidified its ties with the wider Islamic world and gained religious legitimacy and support from Muslim communities.