Did you know...
that during Europe's "Dark Ages," three great African empires provided the main advance of human knowledge? That Timbuktu was once of the greatest centers of learning in the world?
that on separate pilgrimages to Mecca, two African emperors dispensed more than ten million dollars apiece in charity? That another emperor used a thirty pound gold nugget as a hitching post?
that until the invention of firearms the mighty African warriors of the Sudan were never conquered?
This book reveals the magnificent history and heritage of Africa, destroying, once and for all, the centuries-old, still lingering myth that Africa "is a continent without history." Here is a fascinating account of the Africans from the 8th to the 16th century, highlighted by the successive rise of three Sudanese empires—Ghana, Mali and Songhay—that at their height were the equal of any contemporary civilization in Europe or Asia.
Although meant for children, this is not particularly easy to read, as it includes a lot of unfamiliar names which are difficult to keep straight (some charts or an appendix would be helpful). The maps are not very well reproduced and at times unreadable. But this covers material you will not see in any other world history book, and it is a fascinating, well-researched and well-written introduction to three great West African civilizations. Recommended for anyone interested in African history.
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