how did the songhai empire strengthen islam? put in a paragraph(4 points)

Answer 1

The Songhai Empire played a crucial role in strengthening Islam in West Africa through several key factors. First, the empire served as a major center of Islamic learning and culture, particularly in cities like Timbuktu and Gao, where famous schools and universities attracted scholars from across the region. Second, the Songhai rulers, such as Askia Muhammad, actively promoted Islam as the state religion, embedding it into the governance and legal systems, which enhanced its influence among the populace. Third, the empire's vast trade networks facilitated the exchange of Islamic texts, ideas, and cultural practices, effectively integrating Islamic principles into daily life and commerce. Lastly, the military conquests and territorial expansion of the Songhai Empire helped to spread Islam into neighboring regions, as conquered peoples were often encouraged to adopt the faith, thereby expanding its reach and establishing deeper roots throughout West Africa.