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What are the three major pre-colonial systems of Hausa in terms their political organization and system administration?

The Hausa people, before the arrival of the British, were organized into several independent city-states, each with its own distinct political system. While there were variations, three major pre-colonial systems of Hausa political organization and administration can be identified:

1. The Habe Dynasty (Kano, Katsina, Daura, Zaria, Gobir)

* Political Organization: These states were ruled by a hereditary dynasty, with the king (Sarki) holding absolute power. He was the head of the state, the military, and the judiciary.

* System of Administration: The Sarki was assisted by a council of elders (Magaji), who represented different social groups and advised him on governance. The kingdom was further divided into districts (Gabas), each headed by a District Head (Hakimi). The Hakimi collected taxes, maintained law and order, and recruited soldiers in their respective districts.

2. The "Hukumdarai" or "Magaji" System (Hadejia, Zamfara, etc.)

* Political Organization: These states were ruled by a council of elders (Hukumdarai or Magaji), rather than a single hereditary ruler. Each elder represented a lineage or social group, and decisions were made by consensus.

* System of Administration: The council of elders collectively made decisions on matters of state, including taxation, law enforcement, and military affairs. They also acted as judges in disputes between different lineages or groups.

3. The "Fulanin Gida" System (Some areas in Hausaland)

* Political Organization: This system was mainly practiced in the Fulani areas, where the Fulani were living among the Hausa. This system involved a "Chieftain" (Fulanin Gida) who led a small group of Fulani people, usually of a particular family line, and acted as a mediator between their group and the Hausa population.

* System of Administration: The "Fulanin Gida" system was a more decentralized system, with the "Chieftain" managing their group and their relations with the surrounding Hausa communities. They didn't have the same degree of political power as the Habe dynasty rulers or the council of elders in the "Hukumdarai" system.

It's important to note that these systems were not static and could adapt to changing circumstances. Moreover, there were variations within each system depending on the specific state and its history. Despite these differences, the three major pre-colonial systems of Hausa political organization and administration demonstrate the complexity and diversity of Hausa society before the arrival of the British.

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