Latest / The Songhai Empire: Africa's Powerful Forgotten Kingdom — Fexingo History
Songhai's Royal Court: The Koyam and the Art of Governance
In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore the inner workings of the Songhai Empire's royal court under Askia Muhammad and his successors. They focus on the Koyam, the high-ranking counselors who advised the emperor on matters of state, justice, and war. Drawing from the Tarikh al-Sudan and the writings of Leo Africanus, the conversation reveals how the Koyam wielded immense influence, often shaping imperial policy. Lucas explains the rigorous selection process and the loyalty tests these officials underwent, and describes their role in administering the vast empire's provinces. The…
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