Askia Muhammad vs Richard of Cornwall

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.

Richard of Cornwall was elected King of Germany by a faction of prince-electors, opposing Alfonso X of Castile. This election was part of the Great Interregnum, with Richard receiving support from the English crown and the Papacy.

Richard of Cornwall was crowned King of Germany in Aachen by the Archbishop of Cologne. His coronation was contested by Alfonso X, and Richard's authority was largely confined to the Rhineland and parts of southern Germany.

Richard of Cornwall returned to England after spending several years in Germany. His departure weakened his influence in the Holy Roman Empire, and he never returned, leaving the German throne contested until the end of the Great Interregnum.

Richard of Cornwall died at Berkhamsted Castle in England. His death ended his claim to the German throne, and he was succeeded by Rudolf of Habsburg, who ended the Great Interregnum.