Season 6 Episode 15: The Unstable 15th Century part 2: Emir Muhammad the Powerful
From History of Africa by The History of Africa Podcast
May 19, 2025 · 20 min · Episode 53
About this episode
The episode discusses the rise of Muhammad Al Kawab as a powerful leader in Kilwa Kisiwani during the 15th century amidst civil strife.
After decades of civil strife and conflict, a powerful leader finally emerges in Kilwa Kisiwani as the 14th century reached its climax. With the power of the sultanate waning, a powerful judge named Muhammad Al Kawab asserts himself as the true power behind the throne. The age of powerful monarchs is over, and Kilwa's era as an oligarchy begins.
Topics covered
- leadership
- civil strife
- sultanate
- oligarchy
- 14th century
- Kilwa Kisiwani
Keywords
- Muhammad Al Kawab
- Kilwa Kisiwani
- 15th Century
- civil strife
- sultanate
- oligarchy
Mentioned in this episode
Places: Kilwa Kisiwani
More episodes of History of Africa
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- Season 6 Episode 18: The Omani Empire · August 11, 2025 · 25 min
- Season 6 Episode 17: The (Brief) Portuguese Conquest of Kilwa · July 21, 2025 · 23 min
- Season 6 Episode 16: The Portuguese Arrive · June 30, 2025 · 20 min
- From the Vault: Zengjiani, the Zanzibari Traveler in China · June 9, 2025 · 12 min
- Season 6 Episode 14: The Unstable 15th Century Part 1: Age of the Viziers Arrives · April 28, 2025 · 19 min
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