Amina

Type Figure Region Africa Time c. 1533–1610 Also known as Queen Amina

Amina was a legendary female ruler of Zazzau (modern Zaria, Nigeria) in the Hausa region from the late 16th to early 17th century, famed for military…

Timeline

c. 1533–1576Zazzau · HausalandAmina was a daughter of the king of Zazzau, trained in horsemanship and warfare from childhood; according to tradition she served in the palace guard under her brother, gaining combat experience.
1576–1610Hausaland · HausalandShe succeeded around 1576 after her brother's death, leading armies in the 1590s to conquer Hausa city-states such as Kano and Katsina, and building stone walls (ganuwar) in conquered lands to strengthen control of trade routes.

Sources

Muhammad Bello, Infaku'l Maisuri (Sultan Bello's History of Hausaland) — Muhammad Bello
Nigerian National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Hausa States Historical Traditions