Songhai Military Strategy explores the rise and dominance of the Songhai Empire in 15th and 16th-century West Africa. It investigates how the empire's sophisticated military and logistical systems, often overlooked in traditional histories, were crucial to its success. The book argues that Songhai's power stemmed not just from leadership, but from a deliberately engineered military infrastructure, enabling them to control vast territories and adapt to evolving challenges. Intriguingly, the Songhai managed to project power across immense distances through effective resource management and strategic doctrines. The book examines the historical context, including predecessor empires and trans-Saharan trade dynamics, before delving into the Songhai military organization. It covers army composition, command structure, weaponry, and logistical support, analyzing supply lines and resource management. It then explores strategic doctrines and tactical adaptations through key battles and campaigns. By focusing on the operational and logistical aspects, the book provides a unique, granular understanding of the Songhai Empire's war machine.
The book progresses logically, first introducing the empire's origins and expansion factors. Then, it examines military organization and logistical support. Finally, it analyzes strategic doctrines through key battles and the empire's eventual decline. Drawing from Arabic chronicles, oral traditions, and archaeological findings, the book offers a detailed, evidence-based analysis, making it valuable for students of African history, military history enthusiasts, and those interested in pre-colonial empires.
