Home
/
History
/
4x Which of these was responsible for the demise of the Songhai Empire? A a lack of gold B European weapons C the rise of the Mali D the trading of slaves

Question

4x Which of these was responsible for the demise of the Songhai Empire?
A a lack of gold
B
European weapons
C
the rise of the Mali
D
the trading of slaves

4x Which of these was responsible for the demise of the Songhai Empire? A a lack of gold B European weapons C the rise of the Mali D the trading of slaves

expert verifiedVerification of experts

Answer

4.7189 Voting
avatar
ZeldaVeteran · Tutor for 11 years

Answer

<p> B</p>

Explain

<p> The Songhai Empire, which was one of the largest Islamic empires in history, flourished in West Africa during the 15th and 16th centuries. To identify the primary factor responsible for its demise, we must examine each option:<br /><br />A. A lack of gold: While economic factors often play a role in the decline of empires, the Songhai Empire, located in a region rich in gold, did not primarily collapse due to a lack of gold. The empire was a key player in the trans-Saharan trade, which included gold.<br /><br />B. European weapons: This is a significant factor. The Songhai Empire fell to Moroccan forces equipped with firearms in 1591. The Battle of Tondibi, a decisive confrontation, saw the Moroccan army, armed with guns, defeat the Songhai forces, who relied mainly on traditional weapons. This technological disparity played a crucial role in the empire's downfall.<br /><br />C. The rise of the Mali: The rise of the Mali Empire predates the Songhai Empire and, thus, was not a direct cause of the Songhai's demise. The Mali Empire had already reached its peak and was in decline as the Songhai Empire rose to prominence.<br /><br />D. The trading of slaves: While the trans-Saharan slave trade was significant during the Songhai Empire's era, it was not the primary factor in its demise. The empire itself was a participant in this trade.<br /><br />Thus, the most direct and significant factor in the demise of the Songhai Empire was the technological advantage held by Moroccan forces, specifically their use of European firearms.</p>
Click to rate:

Hot Questions

More x