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War · 1516–1537

Kanta's revolt against Songhai

Kanta, a captain in Askia Muhammad's conquest of Hausaland, marched with the Songhai army against Aïr in 1515.

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Overview

Kanta, a captain in Askia Muhammad's conquest of Hausaland, marched with the Songhai army against Aïr in 1515. When he asked the dendi-fari for his share of the spoils he was told he would be treated as a rebel. “Good,” said his men, “we will be treated as rebels as well as you.” The Askia's army sent in 1517 was beaten, and when Askia Muhammad Benkan (1531–1537) tried again his army was scattered and he barely escaped with his life. The Tarikh al-Sudan says no Askia tried again.[1],[2]High confidence

Who took part

  • Kebbi· Attacked
  • Songhai· Defended

What happened

  1. 1515 · Agadez

    The spoils of Aïr

    Kanta's share of the plunder from Agadez is refused.[1]High confidence

  2. 1517 · Leka (approximate)

    Songhai beaten

    The army sent to punish Kanta is defeated.[2]High confidence

  3. 1531–1537 · Surame

    Askia Benkan routed

    The Askia's army is scattered pell-mell.[2],[1]High confidence

Kingdoms involved

Sources

Every claim carries a confidence level: high (well attested), medium (one source or approximate) or disputed (sources disagree).

  1. Wikipedia contributors. Kanta Kotal
  2. Wikipedia contributors. Kingdom of Kebbi