religion
- The primary religion in the Songhai empire was Islam.
- Most upper class people were Muslim while lower class citizens generally retained their traditional religions.
- The government system in the empire was based off of Sharia law.
- Under Askia Mohammed Toure, many religious schools and mosques were built.
- When Askia Toure went for Hajj, he brought as much gold as possible to give in charity and to make a name for his empire outside of its boundaries.
- Although Islam was made the empire's main religion, it was not forced upon those who chose not to convert.