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Kanem Empire |
One of Africa's longest lasting empires was the Kanem empire. It was founded in the year 700 and fell apart in the year 1376. In total it lasted for 676 years. At the height of it's power it covered 300,000 square miles. The first rulers formed what is known as the Duguwa Dynasty. The rulers in the Duguwa Dynasty were known as the mais and belonged to the ruling class known as the Magumi. They were also seen as god-like kings. Both the Magumi and the mais would continue to exist for another 1,000 years.
Next was the Sayfawa Dynasty. During this time Islam was introduced to the region by Berbers and Arabs from North Africa. Many people in Kanem resisted Islam in favor of traditional native beliefs and while some would come to accept the new religion Islam would still face resistance for many more centuries to come. Kanem would reach the peak of it's size under Mai Dunama Dabbalemi. Kanem's influence and authority would reach Libya, Chad, Nigeria and Cameroon. Dabbalemi also started diplomatic relations with sultans from North Africa. However once Dabbalemi died Kanem started to weaken. Kanem would end up being destroyed by internal fighting and invasions from people such as the Bulala.
Next was the Sayfawa Dynasty. During this time Islam was introduced to the region by Berbers and Arabs from North Africa. Many people in Kanem resisted Islam in favor of traditional native beliefs and while some would come to accept the new religion Islam would still face resistance for many more centuries to come. Kanem would reach the peak of it's size under Mai Dunama Dabbalemi. Kanem's influence and authority would reach Libya, Chad, Nigeria and Cameroon. Dabbalemi also started diplomatic relations with sultans from North Africa. However once Dabbalemi died Kanem started to weaken. Kanem would end up being destroyed by internal fighting and invasions from people such as the Bulala.
