Daring African Queens: Amina of Zaria

Amina also had a brother, Karama, who became king at some point.

From childhood, Amina was trained in the military and political affairs of the land by her grandfather; she began to train as a warrior from an early age.

After her parents died, her brother assumed the throne and ruled for ten years; during his rule, Amina was known for her mastery of military skills and as a leading soldier in Zazzau cavalry. Zazzau was one of the largest states of the original Hausa states ( Kano, Daura, Katsina, Garun Gabas, Gobir, Rano). By the time of her brother’s death, Amina was known all over for her notorious military skills and fierce warrior spirit, earning accolades and respect from other warriors in the Zazzau military. As such, she became the ruler of Zazzau.

In her 34- year reign, Queen Amina sought to expand her kingdom to its largest in history. In the third month of her reign, she set out with about 20,000 soldiers to wage war against the neighbouring territories in a bid to expand Zazzau. She conquered every region and controlled more territories than before. For every new land acquired, Queen Amina built distinct earthen fortifications in the form of walls to protect her cities, known as the ‘Amina walls.’ Apart from her conquering quest, Queen Amina also established trade routes across Northern Africa, making Zazzau a major trading centre; this boosted Zazzau's wealth and prosperity. Queen Amina took advantage of the prowess in metal works of her people; she brought in a novel idea of using metal armour like helmets and chain mail in battle by her army. She was termed the warrior queen.

In 1610, Queen Amina died; although the cause and place of her death are unknown, speculations say she died in a place called Atagara during battle.