History - Junior Secondary 2 - Songhai empire - Location of the Songhai Empire

TERM: 3^RD TERM

WEEK: 9 and 10

CLASS: Junior Secondary School 2

AGE: 13 years

DURATION: 40 minutes

DATE:

SUBJECT: History

TOPIC:- Songhai empire - Location of the Songhai Empire

Socio-political structure of the Songhaian people

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES: At the end of the lesson, the learners should be able to

1. ) Discuss the location of the Songhaian empire and the origin of the Songhaian people
2. ) Explain the socio-political structure and economic activities of the Songhaian people

INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Identification, explanation, questions and answers, demonstration, story-telling, videos from source

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: recommended history textbooks for Junior Secondary School 2

INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURES:

WEEK 9

NOTE.

THE SONGHAIAN EMPIRE

Location of the Songhai Empire

• Geographic Extent: The Songhai Empire was primarily located in what is today known as Mali and Niger in West Africa. At its height during the 15th and 16th centuries, it extended along the Niger River, covering areas such as Gao, Timbuktu, and Djenne.
• Key Cities: Important cities within the empire included Gao (the capital), Timbuktu (a major trade and cultural center), and Djenne (known for its architectural marvels and as a trade hub).
• Strategic Position: The empire's location along major trans-Saharan trade routes facilitated the movement of goods and ideas, connecting it to North African and European markets.

Origin of the Songhai People

• Ethnic and Cultural Background: The Songhai people are believed to have originated from the Mande-speaking populations in the region. They developed a distinct identity through interactions with various ethnic groups, including the Berbers and Tuaregs.
• Historical Evolution: The Songhai Empire emerged from the remnants of the earlier Mali Empire and was originally part of the Songhai kingdom, which existed before the rise of the empire. The expansion of the Songhai people into a significant empire was largely driven by trade, agriculture, and military conquests.
• Formation of the Empire: Under the leadership of rulers like Sunni Ali and Askia Muhammad, the Songhai people unified their territories and expanded their influence, establishing the Songhai Empire as one of the largest and most powerful empires in West Africa.

EVALUATION:

1. Where was the Songhai Empire primarily located, and what major cities were part of it?
2. What geographic features contributed to the strategic position of the Songhai Empire along trade routes?
3. Discuss the ethnic and cultural background of the Songhai people. What influences shaped their identity?
4. How did the Songhai Empire emerge from the earlier Mali Empire? What factors contributed to its rise?
5. Who were some key leaders of the Songhai Empire, and how did they influence its development and expansion?

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher marks their books and commends them positively

WEEK 10

NOTE

THE SONGHIAN EMPIRE

Socio-Political Structure and Economic Activities of the Songhai People

Socio-Political Structure

• Centralized Authority: The Songhai Empire had a centralized political structure with a strong ruler at the top. The emperor, known as the Askia, held significant power and authority, overseeing administration, military, and religious matters.
• Bureaucracy: The empire had an organized bureaucratic system with appointed officials responsible for various regions. This helped maintain order and efficient governance throughout the vast territory.
• Council of Elders: Local governance often included councils of elders, who played a vital role in decision-making and conflict resolution within their communities. They acted as advisors to the ruler and helped maintain traditional practices.
• Islamic Influence: The spread of Islam significantly influenced the political structure, with Islamic law (Sharia) integrated into governance. The empire attracted scholars and religious leaders, further solidifying its Islamic identity.

Economic Activities

• Trade and Commerce: The economy of the Songhai Empire was largely based on trade, with the empire controlling key trans-Saharan trade routes. Major goods traded included gold, salt, ivory, and slaves. Timbuktu became a renowned center for trade and learning.
• Agriculture: Agriculture was a vital component of the economy, with farmers cultivating crops such as millet, sorghum, and rice along the fertile banks of the Niger River. The empire's agricultural productivity supported its growing population.
• Fishing and Livestock: In addition to farming, fishing along the Niger River provided a source of food and income. Livestock herding was also practiced, contributing to the empire's economy.
• Craftsmanship: Skilled artisans produced goods such as textiles, pottery, and metalwork, which were essential for both local use and trade.

EVALUATION:   

1. What was the role of the Askia in the governance of the Songhai Empire, and how did their authority impact the empire?
2. Describe the bureaucratic system of the Songhai Empire. How did it contribute to effective governance?
3. In what ways did Islamic principles influence the socio-political structure of the Songhai Empire?
4. What were the primary economic activities of the Songhai people, and how did trade impact their wealth?
5. How did agriculture and fishing along the Niger River contribute to the economic sustainability of the Songhai Empire?

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher marks their books and commends them positively