History
The Political Structure and Governance of the Songhai Empire
Quick fact
At its peak in the 16th century, the Songhai Empire was one of the largest states in the world, yet its governance system is often overlooked in world history.
Why this is interesting
You've heard of ancient Rome and Egypt, but did you know that a vast African empire once ruled over a million square kilometers, with a well-organized government that blended Islamic law and local traditions? How did the Songhai Empire manage such a huge territory centuries before colonialism?