Some Aspects of Islamic Revivalism Made by Sheikh ‘Uthman Dan Fodio (1754-1817)

Abstract

Africa witnessed several reformers and revivalists in Islam before the advent of the European colonists, who succeeded in the partition of Africa. Among them was Sheikh ‘Uthman Dan Fodio, who is supposed by some historians and scholars in civilization to be the most prominent revivalist since he managed to revive Islam in Hausaland and was able, with his followers, to found the Sokoto Caliphate. The present study deals with this eminent revivalist in Islam in Hausaland. The paper begins with a brief biography of this reformer. Then, it explores some aspects of Islamic revivalism made by this outstanding figure. Last but not least, it seeks to reveal whether his revivalist aspects were a success or a failure. This research is considered to be significant since it deals with some aspects of Islamic Revivalism carried by the Shehu ‘Uthman Dan Fodio during his era which was characterized by mingling heretical practices with Islamic beliefs. Thanks to his deep knowledge in Islamic Sciences and his high skills as well as his good morals, he managed to carry out some aspects of Islamic Revivalism mainly those related to women.