The Islamic Revolutions of the Nineteenth Century

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Periodical article

Title:	The Islamic Revolutions of the Nineteenth Century
Author:	Smith, H.F.C.
Year:	1961
Periodical:	Journal of the Historical Society of Nigeria
Volume:	2
Issue:	2
Period:	December
Pages:	169-185
Language:	English
Geographic term:	West Africa
Subjects:	jihads Religion and Witchcraft History and Exploration Peoples of Africa (Ethnic Groups)
Abstract:	The history of the West African savannah in the 19th century has its own independent theme consisting in a series revolutionary movements which radically changed the social and political complexion of the whole zone during the hundred years or so before the establishments of the European governments. These movements were jihads resulting in the formation of Islamic states, the emergence of a new West African Muslim aristocracy, and widespread conversion to Islam. This article deals with the nature of these movements and their significance, indicates the gaps in the knowledge on these movements, and discusses the source material which remains to be recovered: Social and political conditions preceding the jihads - The early risings - The jihads of the 13th century A.H. (Usuman dan Fodio; Seku Ahmadu; Al-Hajj 'Umar) - A note on the sources. Notes.