Answer :
Final answer:
Sunni Ali the Great was the founder of the Songhai Empire in the late 15th century known for his military achievements and expansion of the empire. Despite his reputation as a capable ruler, he faced criticism for his approach to Islam. His legacy is significant within the context of West African history.
Explanation:
Who Was Sunni Ali the Great?
Sunni Ali, also known as Sunni Ali the Great, was a prominent ruler who founded the Songhai Empire in the late 15th century. He rose to power as the leader of the Songhai people, who were fighting against the diminishing power of the Mali Empire. Through military conquests, he expanded his territory significantly and established Gao as his capital.
Sunni Ali is often recognized for his military prowess, particularly his use of cavalry and war canoes, which allowed him to defeat neighboring states and control critical trade routes. Under his leadership, the Songhai Empire became one of the most influential empires in medieval West Africa, thriving on trade in gold, salt, and textiles.
However, his rule was controversial; while he is celebrated in oral traditions as a great general, some contemporary Islamic scholars criticized him for not respecting Islamic practices. This duality in his legacy reflects his complex role as the founder of the Songhai Empire, where he is considered by many to be a significant figure in West African history.
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