Tunka Manin

Tunka Manin (1010–1078) was a ruler of the Ghana Empire who reigned from 1062 to at least 1076 C.E. Preceded by Ghana Bassi, Manin was the last ruler of the Ghana Empire before the Almoravid conquest. Accounts of Tunka Manin come from Al-Bakri who described him as a "lover of justice and favorable to Muslims".[1]: 120 

Manin had succeeded Bassi in 1062 and like him had maintained his traditional religion rather than converting to Islam.[2]: 88  The Almoravids under Abu Bakr ibn Umar had been angered by Bassi's refusal to convert and had started invading the empire.[2]: 87  In 1076, the Almoravids succeeded in sacking the empire's capital of Kumbi Saleh.[3] Manin continued to rule as a vassal of the Almoravids and paid tribute to them.[2]: 88  The Almoravids were expelled in 1087, but the empire had been severely weakened and many former territories had become independent. Islam which had become the dominant faith of its upper class, was being imposed on all subjects, and many animists migrated away from the empire.[4]

Manin was renowned for his involvement with the local communities, and also for his economic policies that increased trade, especially that of salt. He is said to have surrounded himself with an air of divinity and magic, which he used to motivate his people to protect him well.[5] Manin was known to flaunt and display his wealth by dressing himself out in gold, ivory, and other precious materials.

References
  1. Levtzion, Nehemia (1976). "The early states of the Western Sudan to 1500". In Ajayi, A.J. (ed.). History of West Africa (2nd. ed.). New York: Columbia University Press. Retrieved 20 September 2023.
  2. De Graft-Johnson, John Coleman (1986). African Glory: The Story of Vanished Negro Civilizations. Black Classic Press.
  3. The Oxford Encyclopedia of African Thought, Volume 1 byAbiola Irele, Biodun Jeyifo, page 407
  4. Balancing Written History with Oral Traditions: The Legacy of the Songhoy People by Hassimi Oumarou Maiga, page 25
  5. West African Kingdoms 500-1590: Social Class and Economy History: Tunka Manin | World Eras
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