The Songhai Queen Who Ruled Timbuktu

What this episode covers

When the Songhai Empire crumbled after the Saadian invasion in 1591, a woman stepped into power in Timbuktu. This episode tells the story of Queen Astou, known as the 'Queen of Timbuktu,' who led the city during the chaotic 17th century. We explore how she navigated the aftermath of the Moroccan occupation, the rivalry between the Arma (Moroccan soldiers who married into local families) and the native Songhai elite, and her diplomatic maneuvering with the Bambara kingdoms. Learn about the Tarikh al-Sudan's account of her rule, the challenges of leading a city in decline, and how her legacy challenges assumptions about gender and power in pre-colonial West Africa. #QueenAstou #Timbuktu #SonghaiEmpire #SaadianInvasion #TarikhAlSudan #Arma #Bambara #17thCentury #WestAfrica #FemaleRulers #MaliHistory #AfricanQueens #TimbuktuHistory #History #FexingoHistory #AfricanHistory #Scholarship #Resilience Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

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How long is this episode of Timbuktu: Africa's Forgotten Center of Knowledge — Fexingo History?

This episode is 6 minutes long.

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This episode was published on June 16, 2026.

What is this episode about?

When the Songhai Empire crumbled after the Saadian invasion in 1591, a woman stepped into power in Timbuktu. This episode tells the story of Queen Astou, known as the 'Queen of Timbuktu,' who led the city during the chaotic 17th century. We explore...

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