Askia Muhammad vs Gongmin of Goryeo

Askia Muhammad overthrew Sonni Baru, the son of Sonni Ali, in a coup. Muhammad, a general under Sonni Ali, seized power after Baru refused to embrace Islam more fully, establishing the Askia dynasty.

Askia Muhammad made a pilgrimage to Mecca, traveling with a large retinue and distributing gold. He was appointed Caliph of the Sudan by the Abbasid caliph, enhancing his religious and political legitimacy.

Askia Muhammad reorganized the Songhai Empire into provinces governed by appointed officials. He standardized weights, measures, and currency, and established a professional bureaucracy, improving tax collection and governance.

Askia Muhammad patronized Islamic scholars and built mosques and schools in Timbuktu, Gao, and Djenn

Askia Muhammad led a military campaign against the Hausa city-states, including Kano and Katsina. He conquered them and imposed tribute, extending Songhai control over the Hausa region and securing trade routes.

Gongmin purged pro-Yuan officials and abolished Mongol-style institutions, reasserting Goryeo's independence. He also reclaimed territories in the northwest, ending decades of Mongol domination.

Gongmin's Mongol wife, Queen Noguk, died during childbirth, though rumors of poisoning circulated. Her death deeply affected Gongmin, leading to his withdrawal from governance and increased reliance on Buddhist monks.

Gongmin implemented land reforms to reduce the power of Mongol-aligned nobles and redistribute land to peasants and loyal officials. This weakened Yuan influence and strengthened the central government.

Gongmin was assassinated by his close attendant Hong Ryun and other conspirators, possibly due to his erratic behavior and neglect of state affairs. His death plunged Goryeo into political chaos.