Under Askia Muhammad’s leadership, Songhai became a well-run empire and a center of trade and learning. But by 1519, Askia Muhammad was a half-blind old man. In 1528, his son removed him from the throne and declared himself king. The son sent Askia Muhammad to an island that was “infested with mosquitoes and toads.” While on this island, Askia Muhammad heard about his children fighting each other for control of the Songhai empire. In 1537, one of his sons brought Askia Muhammad back to Gao. The following year, Askia Muhammad died. His tomb still stands and is one of the most respected shrines in West Africa.
