Did Islam become more less influential in West Africa from the 700s to the 1400s?

Obviously it had to become more influential, since Islam didn't exist before the mid 600s.

To determine if Islam became more or less influential in West Africa from the 700s to the 1400s, we can examine historical sources and patterns of religious and cultural development during that period.

1. **Study historical records:** Consult historical records from the 700s to the 1400s in West Africa to understand the presence and influence of Islam. This includes analyzing travelogues, trade records, and accounts of Arab and Muslim travelers who traversed West Africa during this period.

2. **Evaluate political and social changes:** Assess the political and social developments during this time frame that might have influenced the spread and influence of Islam. This includes considering the rise and fall of various West African kingdoms, such as Ghana, Mali, and Songhai, which had varying degrees of Islamic influence.

3. **Analyze trade networks:** Consider the impact of trans-Saharan trade routes on the diffusion of Islam. West African states played a pivotal role in the trans-Saharan trade, which brought Muslim merchants and scholars into contact with indigenous populations, leading to the spread of Islamic ideas and practices.

4. **Examine written accounts:** Explore the writings of Muslim scholars and travelers who visited West Africa, such as Ibn Battuta and Al-Sadi, to better understand their observations and assessments of Islam's influence in the region during that period.

5. **Assess architectural and cultural evidence:** Study surviving architectural structures, artwork, and cultural practices to identify Islamic influences. Mosques, religious manuscripts, and Islamic educational institutions may provide insights into the spread and impact of Islam.

By conducting a thorough analysis using the methods described above, historians and researchers can evaluate the changing influence of Islam in West Africa from the 700s to the 1400s. Remember, examining multiple sources and considering different perspectives is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of historical developments.