Askia the Great, who ruled the Songhai Empire in the late 15th and early 16th centuries, significantly contributed to Timbuktu's rise by promoting trade, education, and Islamic scholarship. He established a strong central government, improved the empire's infrastructure, and encouraged the flourishing of the trans-Saharan trade routes, which brought wealth and diverse cultural influences to Timbuktu. Additionally, Askia supported the construction of mosques and universities, making the city a renowned center for learning and attracting scholars from across the Islamic world. His reign solidified Timbuktu's status as a vital hub of commerce and knowledge in West Africa.
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