Articles about

History

Everything related to African mythology.

What Is Freedom To The Unfree? Emancipation Through African Eyes

How has West Africa dealt with its role in the history of slavery? This article reflects on Emancipation Day and looks at the need for open dialogue and renewed connection with the global Black diaspora.

History

Ikpirikpi Ogu and The Ancestral Might of Ohafia

This article explains the history of Ikpirikpi Ogu, the Ohafia war dance, and how it has changed over time. It shows how a dance that once showed a warrior’s strength is now used to celebrate Ohafia identity and teach younger people about their past.

History

The Secret Surrounding the Initiation Rite and Adulthood Transition of the Senufo Youth

How does one become a respected man in the Senufo community? Discover and explore the Senufo Poro society's hidden ceremonies, which put genuine adulthood to the test through rigorous spiritual and mental training as well as nonverbal instructions.

History

Initiation Rites and the Transition to Adulthood Among the Senufo of Côte d’Ivoire

This article centers on how initiation rites are identified as a rite of passage from childhood to adulthood among African traditional communities. It explains the significance of these rites in the traditional sense, focusing on the Senufo People of Côte d’Ivoire.

History

Ojude Oba Festival and the Preservation of Ijebu-Yoruba Identity

The Ojude Oba Festival is an annual celebration by the Ijebu-Yoruba people that blends Islamic faith, Yoruba kingship, and traditional culture to honor the Awujale. It reinforces communal identity and heritage through age-grade processions, music, dance, regalia, and horse-riding displays.

History

Unpacking the Igbo Concept of Time

Consider the passage of time intertwined with environmental observations and words left behind by spirits. This article dives into how the Igbo man calculated time despite having no prior awareness of its existence.

History

Praise Poetry Cinematized: Visualizing Oríkì in Yòrùbá Films

The article offers a glimpse into Yoruba-language cinema, which has evolved from a rich oral and theatrical heritage to emerge as a dynamic canvas for visualizing Oríkì, the Yòrùbá praise poetry.

History

The Griot's Voice in Senegalese Cinema: Djibril Diop Mamébty's Adaptation of Oral Poetics

This article explores how Mambéty channeled the essence of griot storytelling into the medium of film, creating works that honor traditional oral poetics while pushing the boundaries of cinema itself.

History

African Foundations of Brazil's Martial Art Capoeira

This article emphasizes African roots in the birth of Brazilian Capoeira. It takes us back to the life of the enslaved Africans in Brazil, under the Portuguese colonists, and how their struggle and resilience shaped the art we now know as Capoeira.

History

Ọ̀ṣun Òṣogbo: Whispers of the Goddess, Echoes of Devotion

This article gives an interesting insight into the history of the female Yoruba deity Ọ̀ṣun, her origin and the Ọ̀ṣun Òṣogbo.

History

The History of Vai Script and Its Historical Influence on the Modern World

The Vai script is one of West Africa's best-documented ancient writing systems, and thanks to this remarkable fit, modern historians and the Vai people themselves can trace their origins and understand their ancestral way of life.

History

Sacred Spirits: Tracing African Spirituality in the Diaspora

Despite the hardships of the slave trade, African spiritual traditions endured, carefully preserved and passed down through generations. Today, several religions stand as powerful testaments to the resilience and intentional efforts of diasporic communities to uphold their cultural and religious heritage.

History

From Africa to the World: African Flavors Across the Diaspora

Centuries of migration, enslavement, and resettlement have spread Africans—and their food—across the globe. It's fascinating to see how dishes from distant countries share striking similarities, yet reflect subtle local twists.

History

Nsibidi: Evidence of the Igbos' Ancestral Literacy.

The article explores Nsibidi, an ancient writing system traditionally used among the Efik, Igbo, and communities in present-day Cameroon.

History

Oyo Empire: The Rise, Glory, and Legacy of a Yoruba Superpower

This article explores the history of the Oyo Empire, a once-powerful Yoruba force that dominated centuries ago. It traces the empire’s rise, fall, and the unique systems that sustained its existence.

History

Kulafa: Marriage by Betrothal

For the Babur, marriage is planned right at the birth of the bride. Like an investment, it is nurtured and watched carefully untill the celebration of they union.

History

The Roar of Freedom: A Celebration of Lisabi and the Egba Spirit

This captivating story will take you on a journey through the Legend of the Great Warrior Lisabi and the Egba community in Western Nigeria.

History

The Nok Culture: A Window into Nigeria's Enigmatic Past

Deep within central Nigeria, an ancient civilization once flourished, leaving behind a legacy as mysterious as it is captivating. Known as the Nok culture, this society thrived between 1500 BCE and 500 CE, predating many prominent civilizations in sub-Saharan Africa.

History

Ngorda: The Most Elegant Dance

Ngorda dance is the signature dance of the Terawa people of Gombe State, Nigeria.

History

The Price of Victory: Princess Inikpi

This article tells the story of Princess Inikpi, a courageous young woman who made the ultimate sacrifice for her people. Her bravery and selflessness have become an important part of Igala culture and tradition.

History

The Esan-Nupe War

This article sheds light on the war between the Esan and Nupe people, the causes, and the effects.

History

Igba-Boi: Igbo's Source of Trans-Generational Wealth

This article unveils the Igbo people’s pattern of apprenticeship that has produced wealthy businessmen and a better economy in Southeastern Nigeria.

History

Bar Beach: A Victim of Progress?

This article features the once-top natural relaxation spot in Lagos. It also details its transition to the now Eko Atlantic.

History

The Life and legend of Yaa Asantewaa of Ghana

Yaa Asantewaa is a formidable female personality in Ghanaian history. This article delves into her life, the sociopolitical context of her time, her legendary leadership during the war, and her enduring legacy.

History

Modjadji: The Rain Queen of South Africa

The history of Modjadji is one from the Balovedu tribe of South Africa. The article delves into the significance of this personage and her importance to the people of her tribe.

History

The Historic Olumo Rock: A Symbol of Egba Resilience

Olumo Rock, located in Abeokuta, Nigeria, is a historic landmark and symbol of Egba resilience. The rock served as a refuge for the Egba people during 19th-century inter-tribal wars. Lisabi Garden, the Cave, and the Peak comprise Olumo Rock, each telling stories of Egba history and culture. Today, Olumo Rock represents the Egba people's unwavering determination and cultural heritage.

History

The Former Kings of Nigeria's Economy: Cocoa and the Groundnut Pyramids

Nigeria's economy once thrived on agricultural exports, particularly cocoa and groundnuts. This article explores the rich history of these products and how they contributed to the country's economy before the oil boom.

History

Ashanti Unbrellas

The Article explores the tradition of Ashanti Umbrellas how they are made and their significance.

History

Must the Custom Have a Final Say: “Igiogbe”

The topic IGIOGBE, focuses on succession in the native Bini Kingdom which transcended into the modern Benin Kingdom. This essay sheds light on the idea behind inheritance and the spiritual implication inclined with first born sons inheriting the IGIOGBE title.

History

Okumkpo Theatre

The article explores the traditional plays of the Igbo culture and its impact on society.

History

Kente Cloth of the Ashanti

Explore the rich history of Kente cloth, the intricate art of weaving by the Ashantis of Ghana, and the cultural significance, taboos, and traditions that surround this iconic textile.

History

The Drum Language of the Ashanti

The Ashanti Drum Language is an intricate communication system using drumming to convey messages across villages in parts of Ghana. Learn how drums speak through tonal rhythms and the cultural significance behind them.

History

Iwas: Haitian Spirits Of Rebellion

Iwas are spirits in the diasporic religion of Voudou. This article explores their journey over transatlantic waters to the Caribbeans where they finally settle into Haitian soil.

History

Horses, Drums, and Devotion: The Kano Durbar Festival in All Its Glory

This article gives a captivating insight into the Durbar festival ceremony in Kano State of Nigeria. It includes captivating pictures of the ceremony.

History

The Cwezi People of Uganda: An Illumination on the Subject of the Enigmatic Populace

The topic of the transcendental Cwezi people of Uganda who existed thousands of years ago, is one that is filled with speculations and hypotheses. This article aims to shed light on the historical, cultural, religious, and mythical aspects of these conjectural beings, by delving into their origins, heritage, and attributes.

History

The Beat Within: Exploring the Rhythmic Dance of Africa

This essay examines how rhythm is at the heart of African dance, and how it weaves a tapestry of movement that reflects the continent's rich and diverse cultures.

History

The Yoruba "Ila": The History and Significance of the Yoruba Art of Scarification

This article discusses the art of scarification of the Yoruba people, the types, and the origin.

History

Àdìrẹ: Clothing from the Gods

Adire has been in existence for decades and it is more than a fashion statement, it tells the stories of our people and shows their way of life.

History

Gele Artistry: Unraveling the Cultural Significance of Yoruba Headgear

Gele tying in Yoruba culture is a meticulously passed-down skill, embodying the artistry and precision cultivated over generations. With numerous techniques, from the elegant "Orente" style for special occasions to the bold "Aso Oke" style exuding regality, Gele tying becomes a dynamic testament to mastery, seamlessly blending tradition with evolving trends.

History

Festival of the Tides: Boat Regatta in Nigeria

The boat regatta is a festival popular to people of the riverine communities in Nigeria. A regal festival of colors and dance that tells the story and shows the culture of the people.

History

Nom Dawo Ham: What You should know about the Ham people of Kaduna State

This essay is about the Ham tribe of Kaduna, their culture, and what they are known for.

History

From the Nile to the Niger: Tracing the Development of African Mathematics

Tracing the mathematical development from the Nile to the Niger reveals a rich heritage in Africa, with ancient civilizations like Egypt demonstrating advanced knowledge in geometry and arithmetic, while the empires of Ghana, Mali, and Songhai contributed to mathematics through manuscripts covering diverse fields. Despite colonial disruptions, contemporary initiatives aim to revive indigenous mathematical traditions, showcasing Africa's ongoing role in global mathematical discourse.

History

The Igbabonelimhin Masquerade of the Esan People

This is an article on the history and function of the famous Esan Igbabonelimhin masquerade and dance. It dives into how the masquerade not only serves as a means of entertainment but also its ritual functions.

History

Evolution of Warfare in Pre-Colonial West African States

It is about the history of Warfare and its evolution in Pre-colonial West African States through the revolutionary discovery of horses as weapons of war

History

The Esan People: Herbs and Heritage

This essay examines the Esan people's belief in the potency of herbs as a means of sustenance and bonding. It explores how herbs and the art of healing affects various aspects of their life and how it is their heritage.

History

Colonialism and Yoruba Society: Transformations, Challenges, and Resilience

This article explores the complex historical interplay between British colonialism and Yoruba society in Nigeria, shedding light on the transformative effects it had on governance, culture, and the economy. It underscores the enduring resilience of Yoruba culture, revealing how the community adeptly navigated the challenges of modernization and globalization while preserving its distinct identity.

History

History of The Enchanting Kayo-Kayo Festival In Epe Land of Lagos State.

This article gives a story of the peculiar kayo-kayo festival that takes place annually in Epe town. The essay gives details on the festival and all its activities.

History

Pusdung Cultural Festival; Ngas People of Plateau State

This essay is about a cultural festival observed annually by the Ngas people of Pankshin local Government. The festival shows the richness if the people's land and their lives as well as their culture. The story narrates how the festival takes place and all that entails it .

History

The Ekpe Masquerade festival in Abia state

The article is about an ancient cultural festival in Abia, Nigeria that is still being practiced to date.

History

Unraveling the Mysteries of the Bantu Dispersal: A Journey Through Time

The Bantu dispersal across sub-Saharan Africa had a profound impact on the continent's culture, language, history, and education. The migration of the Bantu people influenced the formation of diverse societies, the spread of Bantu languages, the development of political entities, and the transmission of knowledge, leaving a lasting legacy on African heritage and contributions to the world.

History

Historical Exploration of African Writing: A Comparative Analysis of Adinkra Symbols in Ghanaian Culture and Nsibidi in Igbo Land, Nigeria

The article explores the art and significance of Adinkra symbols in Ghanaian culture, highlighting their evolution as a form of writing and comparing them to the Nsibidi symbols used in Igbo Land, Nigeria.

History

The Significance of the New Yam Festival in Nigerian History

This essay talks on the new yam festival which happens every year in Nigeria.

History

Ancestral Echoes: Unmasking The Spiritual Secrets Of The Oro Masquerade

This article explores the captivating world of the Oro masquerade, an ancient African tradition originating from the Yoruba people of Nigeria, delving into its origins, materials, tribes, cultural significance, controversies, and its role as a unifying force in African culture while unraveling its enigmatic nature and enduring allure.

History

Diplomacy and the Balance of Power in Pre-Colonial West African States (1600-1800)

This is a study and investigation into the nature of diplomacy and international relations in the Pre-Colonial West Africa and how these earliest forms of diplomatic interactions with the outside played a huge part in state building and the balance of power among West African states from 1600-1800.

History

Lights, Camera, Ososa: The Legacy of Hubert Ogunde

Hubert Ogunde, a visionary filmmaker born in Ososa Ijebu, Nigeria, revolutionized Nigerian cinema with his groundbreaking films and theatrical performances. Through his commitment to authentic storytelling, cultural preservation, and social change, Ogunde's legacy continues to inspire artists and audiences, leaving an enduring impact on Nigerian cinema and the wider world of film.

History

Ayedun: A Historical Nigerian Town Preserving Rich Cultural Culinary Traditions

Ayedun, a historical Nigerian town in Ekiti state, preserves rich cultural culinary traditions, particularly centered around yams. The annual Ogun festival celebrates yams with dancing, masquerades, and pounding yam to honor the deity Ogun. Emu is another significant yam-related celebration where villagers enjoy the newly harvested yams together. Besides yams, Aadun, a delightful corn-based dish, adds diversity to Ayedun's culinary offerings. The town's commitment to preserving traditions, including rituals and architecture, showcases its cultural heritage, and cultural tourism is embraced to share these unique practices with visitors.

History

Leading The Marginalized: The Political Activities of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti

This passage highlights the emergence of Black feminism in Africa, particularly associated with Pan-Africanism. Women in Nigeria played pivotal roles in protests against colonial interference, giving rise to a formidable type of feminism. Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, a prominent figure in Nigerian feminism, founded the Abeokuta Ladies' Club and led major protests against women's taxation and the monarchy. Her activism extended to national and international levels, earning her honors and recognition for her relentless pursuit of women's rights and social justice.

History

The Ota-Omu Ceremony of the Ohafia People

Ohafia, located in Abia state, Nigeria, is an Ibo-speaking community with 26 villages, led by Elu as the capital. Renowned for its great warriors, Ohafia's age-grade system plays a crucial role in socializing members and engaging them in community projects. The traditional age-grade retirement ceremony, Ota-omu, fosters unity, economic growth, and respect among its members.

History

LOVE IN NOBILITY; “THE WOMAN KING, QUEEN IDEN OF BENIN KINGDOM”, NIGERIA.

The article praises Queen Iden of the ancient Benin Kingdom for her love and service to her husband, Oba Ewuakpe, during a turbulent time when he faced rejection and humiliation. Queen Iden's sacrifice, by offering her life to restore the people's loyalty to the monarchy, is considered heroic and marked a turning point in the kingdom's stability. The article highlights the significant role of women, like Queen Iden, in the evolution and development of pre-colonial Benin's socio-political culture, emphasizing their powerful virtues and influence.

History

The Eyo Festival: Uncovering the Sacred Symbolisms of Nigeria’s Iconic Masquerade

The Eyo festival, also known as the Adamu Orisa Play, is a revered traditional Nigerian masquerade with deep cultural significance in the Yoruba community. Originating in the early 19th century in Lagos State, it evolved from the ancient practice of honoring deceased kings or chiefs. Unlike its secretive predecessor, the Oro festival, the Eyo festival is performed openly and attracts spectators from all walks of life. Symbolizing unity, it purifies the city, honors ancestors, and plays a vital role in the coronation of a new Oba (King). This festival's impact extends beyond Nigeria, promoting tourism, boosting the economy, and preserving Yoruba culture and heritage worldwide.

History

Pick your tree

One of the tallest trees of the forest, it is used as a fake teak for its close qualities. But one thing the teak definitively does not have, shutting it in the great timber wood, is its language. Yes, the Iroko can talk.

History

Waist beads: A cultural antiquity in Africa

Waist beads have deep cultural significance in Africa, representing femininity, fertility, sensuality, and spirituality. They have been used for rites of passage, contraception, and protection against evil spirits.

History

The Musical Life Of Àyìnlá Ọmọwúrà

The musical life of Àyìnlá Ọmọwúrà is chronicled in this article which examines his music, life and impact. An Apala musician from Abeokuta, Ayinla's music discussed various societal ills.

History

Rhythm of Resistance: Exploring the Role of Music in African Liberation Movements in South Africa and Zimbabwe

Music has long been a tool for resistance and protest in Africa. Throughout history, African musicians have used their art to express political dissent, challenge oppressive regimes, and promote social change.

History

Pioneers, Leaders, and Trailblazers: The Stories of Prominent Women in African History

African history has been shaped by numerous women who have made significant contributions in various fields. Despite facing numerous challenges and barriers, these women have emerged as leaders, pioneers, and trailblazers, breaking stereotypes and paving the way for future generations of women.

History

Yoruba Traditions and Religions in South America

The Yoruba people are an ethnic group that originated in West Africa, specifically in present-day Nigeria and Benin. However, their influence and traditions have spread far beyond their place of origin, including to South America. The Yoruba culture, and its associated religions, has played a significant role in shaping the societies and cultures of many South American countries, particularly Brazil, Cuba, and Trinidad and Tobago.

History

Evolution of Currencies In West Africa

The evolution of currency in West Africa spans centuries and encompasses a wide range of cultures and civilizations. From bartering to cowrie shells, beads, metal objects, European currencies and now digital currencies like Bitcoin. The use of foreign currencies, particularly the US dollar, remains widespread in West Africa, and digital currencies offer a number of advantages over traditional forms of currency, including lower transaction costs and increased security.

History

King Sunny Ade: Life, Legacy and the Evolution of Juju Music

Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye is a Nigerian juju singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who goes by the stage name King Sunny Adé. He is known as one of the first African Pop artists to become popular around the world, and he has been called one of the most influential musicians of all time.

History

Hairdressing and Hairstyles in Yorubaland: History, Nature, Dynamics and Significance

Hairdressing and hairstyles are strong features for identification and social status among the Yoruba.

History

Nigeria at 62: Reinventing Nigerian Music for Cultural, Social and National Change

African art became an instrument of aesthetics, an embellishment of worth and cultural glorification, as well as an exploration of anthropological details and the globalisation of African cosmology.

History

Mau Mau Uprising: Bloodshed for Kenyan Freedom

The Mau Mau Uprising is another African history relating to the national activist movement for freedom in Kenya. It was a bloody war of liberation that lasted from 1952 to 1963 and is said to be the foundation of Kenyan independence.

History

Maasai: Power in the Blood

The Maasai are an ethnic group who inhabit Southern Kenya and Northern Tanzania. A semi-nomadic group, they are one of the most popular locals in the world, not least because they dwell close to the African game parks but because of their peculiar dress, customs and food.

History

Kumbwada: Where Women Rule

Kumbwada is an ancient kingdom with a population of about 33,000 people which is located in Niger, a state in the Northern part of Nigeria

History

Traditional Marriage in Hausa Land

The marriage traditions of the Hausa ethnic group in Nigeria

History

Calling Time: Harmful Traditional Practices in Africa and The Need for Change

Meanwhile, traditional practices are considered detrimental after being subjected to and evaluated under objective lenses of biological, social, psychological and natural sciences and deemed not to meet the psycho-social needs of man nor are necessary for his development and physical well-being, and therefore negate scientific theory and best practices. Such traditions are known as Harmful Traditional Practices (HTP).

History

Born Different

The myths surrounding people with albinism are too numerous to mention and these have been deeply ingrained in the minds of those who believe it.

History

A Journey into African Myths: Our Thought Systems and Relevance to Science. (Literary Competition Winner 2021)

Although African myths may be mysterious and sometimes illogical, judging them from a typical western standpoint is not right. This is because some scientific information could be gotten from the explanatory stories, origin stories and didactic stories which constitute thesemyths. African myths embody the multifaceted African thought systems which are transmitted in ritual practice, with manifestations in the form of African spirituality.

History

Aba Women's War

Pioneered by women from the Owerri and Calabar provinces of south-eastern Nigeria, the “Women’s War” in Igbo history or the “Aba Women’s Riots of 1929” in British colonial historywas an immense rejoinder to the oppressive and repressive administration of the British colonial administrators in south-eastern Nigeria. This riot became one of the meanest challenge against British rule in the colony and an epochal case of feminist thought and tendencies as well as anti-colonial revolt.

History

Revisiting Fictions on Pre-literate Africa

The advent of the European world left Africa with little or no choice. It was indeed a brutal condition of either immediate adaptation or cultural annihilation. Therefore, the question that remained pertinent in the minds of early writers was the issue of African autonomy and cultural splendor.

History

Queen Amina

Queen Amina is a heroine known in and outside Africa. More than a myth, Queen Amina’s legend is a replica of history and it lays claims to historical places, faces and figures. Her story has at its core a moral and inspiring dimension and also imbues a sense of self-worth among the people. As such, retelling her story and preserving the legend does not only educate the African reader and give him confidence in his cultural heritage, but also enlightens the foreign reader about Africa, putting an end to years of cultural misrepresentation.

History

Praise Poems in Africa

Oral poetry in Africa has been an artistic compendium of the beliefs and culture of the African people. There are many forms of oral poetry in the African society such as the invocative poetry, didactic poetry, praise poetry, special occasion poetry, lyrics, funeral poetry, ritual poetry, satirical poetry and epic poetry.

History