Ghana, Mali & Songhay: The Story of Three Great Empires
--This text refers to an alternate
Paperback
edition.
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From the Back Cover
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?
Did you know...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?
Did you know..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 "was a continent without history." Here is a fascinating account of the Africans from the 8th to the16th century, highlighted by the successive rise of three Sudanese empires that at their height were the equal of any contemporary civilization in Europe or Asia. --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.
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Customer Reviews
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful
Format:Paperback
This slender volume provides a good basic account of the three primary kingdoms of ancient Africa. We have heard much in recent years from Afro-centric revisionist historians about the alleged wonder of ancient Africa. This book puts some of those myths into perspective. While obviously intended for a young reading audience, this book has some useful information. The maps and pictures have an ameturish quality to them, but will doubtless appeal to high school students and less sophisticated readers. The text is simple and a bit over-stated at times.
The three African kingdoms discussed here were certainly impressive for their time and place, but seem to have left little lasting influence. They were primarily trading empires, with some literature (Islamic Koranic writing and study) some archectecture and medicine. Music, art and higher forms of literature that would be found in Europe in the Renissiance appear to be non-existent. It is interesting to note that all three Kingdoms were heavily influenced by Islam, a non-indigeneous religion. Thus it seems Africa's greatest kingdoms were due more to the influence of Islam than anything else. Much about these kingdoms remains obscure and will likely remain so, thus providing numerous revisionist historians the means to make all sorts of outrageous statements. The perfect atmosphere for invention and fabrication. Still, this book provides a clearer look at the early history of Africa more so than recent ethno-centric studies like those compiled by the dubious Louis Gates. Young and older readers alike can certainly find some merit in this work
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
By Andre M.
Format:Paperback
I have used this book to teach both fifth graders and college students about the basics of African history. This book effectively tells the tales of the Sundiata epic, Sonni Ali, the rise and fall of Timbuktu in a way that is entertaining, but also educational. If you want a basic foundation into African history while avoiding the political minefield of "Afrocentrism," read this, learn, and enjoy.
1 of 2 people found the following review helpful
By israel getty
Format:Paperback
This book has done a wonderful job of informing its readers about ancient African kingdoms. In doing so it informs the world, most of whom are ignorant, about great civilizations that stood long before Europe, namely Rome. It challenges the lies of those Caucasians who traditionally distort history so as to place European civilizations above all others,just as they took Egypt out of Africa, painted Jesus white and placed white Jews in the East.
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