Early Life
In which year was Uthman Dan Fodio born?
1754
What three Islamic principles did Dan Fodio aim to establish in people’s lives?
Islam, Imān, and Iḥsān
What was the capital city of the Sokoto Caliphate?
Sokoto
What event forced Dan Fodio and his followers to migrate from Degel?
A violent crackdown by rulers and a failed assassination attempt
In what year did the Shehu pass away?
1817
What was the name of his father, also a respected scholar?
Muhammad ibn Fudi (Fodio)
What was the name of the movement or community formed by his students?
Jama’a
Who were the two wazirs appointed by the Shehu?
Abdullahi (West) and Muhammad Bello (East)
What was the name of the first major victory of the Jama’a army?
Battle of Taffin Kwatto
What title did many give Dan Fodio due to his religious renewal?
Mujaddid (Renewer of the faith)
What does the title “Shehu” mean in the Hausa context?
Sheikh or Religious Leader
How did Dan Fodio view women’s access to religious education?
He strongly supported it and encouraged women to attend his classes.
In what year was the Caliphate officially established after victory?
1808
Which battle was seen as the Jama’a’s equivalent to the Battle of Uhud?
Battle of Toun Toun
Which region in Africa was most transformed by his movement?
West Africa / Bilad al-Sudan
Which early teacher instilled the concept of Tajdīd in him?
Shaykh Jibril ibn ‘Umar
What was his criticism of contemporary scholars?
That they lacked action and were complicit in oppression.
What new role did the Shehu take after transferring political duties?
Amir al-Mu’minin (Spiritual Leader)
What decree did Nafata issue to suppress Dan Fodio’s movement?
No preaching, banning of Islamic dress, return to paganism
What was his emphasis for rulers in the new Caliphate?
Justice, Shariah, and righteous advisors
What Islamic school of jurisprudence did Dan Fodio follow?
Mālikī Madhhab
Why did he write many of his works in Fulani and Arabic?
To educate his people in a language they understood.
How did he divide administrative responsibilities between his wazirs?
West to Abdullahi, East to Bello
Why did Dan Fodio delay armed resistance for so long?
He wanted to avoid premature bloodshed and ensured readiness
What did he say about scholars who oppose the teaching of women?
That they were hypocrites who abandoned their own families