How did Andrianampoinimerina use trade with the French to expand the Merina kingdom?

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King Andrianampoinimerina, who reigned from 1787 to 1810, was instrumental in reuniting the Merina kingdom and establishing a foundation for its expansion across Madagascar.

To strengthen his military capabilities, he engaged in trade with the French stationed on the coast. Specifically, he sold slaves to the French in exchange for guns. These firearms provided his forces with a significant tactical advantage, which he utilized to conquer neighboring peoples, such as the Betsileo. By the end of his reign, his efforts had transformed the kingdom, leaving his successor with the ambitious goal of expanding the Merina state until the sea served as the boundary of his territory.12