Background
The Kanem-Bornu Empire had been in decline in the area from the mid 1700s. The result was the rise of a number of independent Hausa kingdoms throughout the region. Two prominent Hausa kingdoms which rose up were Gobir and Zamfara. However, warfare between the Hausa states and with other states were constant for the latter 1700s resulting in a harsh system of conscription and taxation. The Fulani, a largely pastoral people were often the victims of Hausa taxation, land control, and other discriminatory practices.
Read more about this topic: Fulani War
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