Revolutionary Mahdism and Resistance to Colonial Rule in the Sokoto Caliphate, 1905-1906

The Mahdist rebellion of 1905–1906, which targeted the nobility of the Sokoto Caliphate, the 'zarmakoy' (Zarma kings) of Dosso, and British and French colonial rule, was a revolutionary movement. Beginning late in 1905 in French Niger at Kobkitanda, the uprising quickly expanded to Satiru in British northern Nigeria at the beginning of 1906. Disgruntled peasants, runaway slaves, and radical clerics who opposed both the colonial administrations and indigenous authorities made up the Mahdist supporters of the uprising. The 'ulama, affluent businessmen, and nobility were not known to be in favor. Strong class and, consequently, racial divisions were thus mirrored in the uprising. Another significant aspect of the movement that is highlighted by its class tensions and pan-colonial appeal is how revolutionary Mahdism was different.