Tribes of Namibia

(1). Himba - Known for their distinctive yellowish-red body paint and traditional clothing, the Himba live primarily in the northern regions of Namibia. They are semi-nomadic shepherds.

(2). Herero – Closely related to the Himba tribe, the Herero are known for their elaborate traditional clothing, including the Victorian-style dresses worn by women. They are also shepherds and farmers.

(3). San (Bushmen) - An indigenous people of South Africa, they are traditionally hunter-gatherers and known for their deep knowledge of the natural environment and tracking skills.

(4). Damara – The Damara people have a rich cultural heritage and are famous for their traditional music and dance. They live primarily in the central and northwestern regions of Namibia.

(5). Nama - The Nama people, also known as Namaqua, are traditional pastoralists and have a rich oral history and culture. They live in the southern part of Namibia.

(6). Kwanyama - Part of the Ovambo ethnic group, the Kwanyama people are found in the northern regions of Namibia. They are known for their agricultural practices and rich cultural traditions.

(7). Ovatjimba - A subgroup of the Herero people, the Ovatjimba are also known for their traditional pastoral lifestyle and cultural practices.

(8). Ovambo – The Ovambo people are one of the largest ethnic groups in Namibia. They are known for their agricultural skills and vibrant cultural traditions. 

#Africa #Namibia

The Birth Song Of The Himba, Namibia

There is a tribe in Africa where the birth date of a child is counted not from when they were born, nor from when they are conceived but from the day that the child was a thought in its mother’s mind.

And when a woman decides that she will have a child, she goes off and sits under a tree, by herself, and she listens until she can hear the song of the child that wants to come. 

And after she’s heard the song of this child, she comes back to the man who will be the child’s father, and teaches it to him. And then, when they make love to physically conceive the child, some of that time they sing the song of the child, as a way to invite it.

And then, when the mother is pregnant, the mother teaches that child’s song to the midwives and the old women of the village, so that when the child is born, the old women and the people around her sing the child’s song to welcome it.

And then, as the child grows up, the other villagers are taught the child’s song. If the child falls, or hurts its knee, someone picks it up and sings its song to it. Or perhaps the child does something wonderful, or goes through the rites of puberty, then as a way of honoring this person, the people of the village sing his or her song. 

#Africa #Namibia

HISTORY LESSON

In African cultures the meaning of the colours and different shapes of beads varies with every community and they can be thought of as visual dialects. Each bead, colour, and shape relays a different message depending on the giver/receiver.

Traditionally, mothers adorned their daughters with waist beads during their first menstruation as a rite of passage into womanhood. The beads symbolised a young lady’s fertility, developing body, and her sexuality. A young lady’s beads were adorned with bells to let possible suitors know that she was at the right stage for reproduction. In many cultures the waist beads symbolised a young woman’s purity and were only to be taken off by her husband on their wedding night. Most waist beads are worn under clothing and are a private affair. 

#Africa

Top Facts About South Sudan🇸🇸

(1). Youngest Country: South Sudan is the world's youngest country, gaining independence from Sudan on July 9, 2011.

(2). Multilingual Nation: There are over 60 languages spoken in South Sudan, making it one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world.

(3). Oil-Rich Country: South Sudan has significant oil reserves, with oil production accounting for nearly 60% of the country's GDP.

(4). Nile River Source: The White Nile, one of the two main tributaries of the Nile River, originates in South Sudan.

(5). Wildlife Haven: South Sudan is home to numerous national parks and wildlife reserves, hosting an incredible array of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and lions.

(6). Ancient Civilizations: The region has a rich history, with ancient civilizations like the Kingdom of Kush and the Nubian Kingdom.

(7). Diverse Cultures: South Sudan has over 64 ethnic groups, each with unique cultures, traditions, and customs.

(8). Resilient People: Despite facing numerous challenges, including civil wars and famines, the people of South Sudan are known for their resilience and warm hospitality.

(9). Growing Economy: South Sudan has vast agricultural potential, and its economy is slowly growing, with opportunities for investment and development.

(10). Cows are a symbol of wealth, status, and prestige in South Sudan. The more cows you own, the higher your social standing.

These facts highlight South Sudan's unique blend of natural resources, cultural diversity, and resilience, making it a fascinating country to learn about! 

#Africa #SouthSudan

Dennis Brutus: A Biography of the Resistance and the South African Years

Books

Sana Amin

July 18, 2020

Dennis Brutus - Cultural Section Dennis Brutus, 

"It was inevitable that his life story would eventually be told. Brutus's life is woven so tightly into the fabric of modern South African history."

Dennis Brutus (1924-2009) lived in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape during the first half of the twentieth century. His identity was mixed with different races: Dutch, German, Malaysian, and African. He registered his identity as “coloured,” and lived most of his life during the turbulent period with the apartheid regime. A legally codified system of racial segregation and discrimination was launched in South Africa in 1948, followed by the development of a ruthless state apparatus designed to systematically eliminate any resistance.

In these bleak circumstances Brutus found himself as a student, teacher, poet, journalist, and anti-apartheid activist in all these roles. However, despite his great influence, he never published any autobiographical work, attributing his reluctance to begin writing them to his belief that there was no coherent account of his life.  "I have failed to see in my life any kind of coherence, pattern, or unifying thread that justifies an autobiography," he wrote in a letter to a friend in the mid-1970s. "It seems to me that autobiographies need to organize one's knowledge of life in such a way as to show some pattern, some kind of clarity."

He was sent into exile on Robben Island for 16 months, five of which were in solitary confinement, and was in the cell next to Nelson Mandela.

However, when University of Texas academic Hal Willey approached him in 1988, with the aim of working with him on writing an autobiography, he was more amenable to the idea. He tried to convince Brutus that a biography would be better than an academic work on his life, as it would enrich it with poetic and literary language, and could focus on existential details, memories, and personal aspects that would not be appropriate for a formal biography, but would be more humanly interesting. 

Willie then told Brutus that his life was closely linked to the rise of apartheid and, at the same time, offered “a new way of looking at the struggle against apartheid”. He drew particular attention to Port Elizabeth and the Eastern Cape as key sites of this conflict.

Despite his reservations about writing a full biography, Brutus began working with Willy on a rough draft. The effort was tentatively titled "Biography of a South African Troubadour" and the draft was based on tapes made by the poet, but Willie says "as we reached adolescence and adulthood Brutus cried out that he would answer no more questions" and the biography was halted.

11 years after his passing, the South African researcher Tyrone August, professor of English literature, returns to write a biography of the first four decades of Brutus’ life in a book recently published by HSRC Press under the title “Denis Brutus: The South African Years.” In the book, he returns to his lyric poetry as one  One of the most prominent poets of his generation, and the role he played as a human rights activist in mobilizing and intensifying opposition to injustice and oppression, initially in South Africa, but he later expanded his activity to various issues in different regions of the world as well.

This book focuses on the life of Dennis Brutus in South Africa from his childhood until he went into exile in Britain with an exit permit in 1966, which meant that he could never return home as long as the apartheid regime was in power. He continued to fight racism wherever he went, whether in Britain or in the United States. The United States, which he later moved to.

The biography is also more of an attempt to acknowledge Brutus's literary and political work, and in a sense, as the author says, "an attempt to bring Brutus back to South Africa," as this book puts Brutus's voice in as he tells the story of his life in Willie's forgotten tapes and through articles he published in newspapers and magazines, interviews, and court records. And correspondence.

Auguste relies heavily on archival material not yet in the public domain, as well as on interviews he conducted with many people who interacted with Brutus during his early years in South Africa.

The author pays particular attention to his involvement in some of the most influential organizations of his time, including the South African Teachers' Association, the Colored Affairs Management Movement, the National Coloureds' Congress, the Coordinating Committee for International Recognition in Sport, the South African Sports Association and the Non-Racial Olympic Committee in South Africa. Africa, which Brutus essentially united to wage a collective campaign against racism in sport in South Africa including a campaign to ban it from the Olympics.

The story began in 1963, when Brutus was arrested for trying to meet an International Olympic Committee official. He was accused of violating the terms of his movement restriction, as he was not allowed to meet more than two people outside his family. He was sentenced to 18 months in prison.  He was out on bail and then attempted to leave South Africa to attend an International Olympic Committee meeting in Baden in West Germany. While in Mozambique on a false passport, he was arrested and returned to South Africa.

There, while trying to escape, he was shot in the back and sent into exile to Robben Island for 16 months, five of which were in solitary confinement. He was in the cell next to Nelson Mandela, and when his campaign succeeded and South Africa was banned from participating in the Tokyo Olympics in 1964, Brutus was in prison.  He did not know until after he left that he had succeeded in his endeavors.

Among his most prominent poetry collections are: “Sirens, Knuckles and Boots,” “Letters to Martha and Other Poems from a South African Prison,” “Poems from Algeria,” “Simple Lust,” “China Poems,” “Stubborn Hope,” and  "Salute and blame" and others.

#Africa

Letting Go of the Past: Embracing Change and Transforming Yourself

In the intricate tapestry of human experience, the weight of tradition and past burdens can often anchor us to outdated habits and ways of thinking. While these traditions might have served us in some capacity, clinging to them without questioning their relevance can impede our growth and transformation. True liberation comes from the courage to release these constraints and embrace the unknown, allowing us to evolve into better versions of ourselves.

Tradition can provide a sense of identity and continuity, yet it can also be a double-edged sword. While traditions connect us to our roots, they can also become chains that bind us to a past that no longer serves our current needs or future aspirations. It is essential to recognize when these traditions hinder our progress. This requires a willingness to question and redefine what we have always accepted without challenge. Breaking free from harmful traditions is not an act of rebellion but rather an act of self-preservation and evolution. It involves courage to confront the familiar and step into the unknown, trusting that the journey will lead to personal growth and self-discovery.

Life is fraught with challenges—trials, uncertainty, adversity, and oppression. Yet, it is within these very struggles that we find the seeds of strength, determination, and resilience. When we view these hardships not as insurmountable obstacles but as opportunities for growth, we begin to develop the perseverance needed to navigate life's complexities. It is this mindset shift that propels us into a new chapter of self-evolution and change. Adversity is a catalyst for growth, pushing us beyond our comfort zones and challenging us to develop new skills and perspectives. It forces us to confront our limitations and encourages us to find innovative solutions to problems. Embracing adversity requires a shift in mindset from viewing challenges as threats to seeing them as opportunities for learning and development.

One of the most profound realizations in this journey is the acceptance of reality as it is. This involves acknowledging that while we may hope for miracles, true change often requires intentional effort and a willingness to face our circumstances head-on. By accepting our present conditions without judgment or resistance, we create space for genuine transformation. Acceptance is not about resigning to our circumstances but about understanding and embracing them as part of our journey. It allows us to release the burden of past regrets and future anxieties, enabling us to focus on the present moment. This focus is the foundation for making informed and deliberate choices that align with our values and aspirations.

At the heart of personal growth lies self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Understanding our emotions, motivations, and responses to the world around us empowers us to make conscious choices that align with our true selves. This self-awareness serves as a guiding light, helping us navigate the complexities of our inner and outer worlds with clarity and intention. Emotional intelligence involves recognizing and managing our emotions, as well as empathizing with others. It is a critical skill for building strong relationships and communicating effectively. By developing emotional intelligence, we enhance our ability to connect with others, resolve conflicts, and foster a sense of community and belonging.

Curiosity is the driving force behind innovation and change. It compels us to explore new possibilities, question established norms, and seek out opportunities for growth. By nurturing our innate curiosity, we ignite a sense of self-initiation—a proactive approach to life that fuels our aspirations and propels us toward new horizons. Curiosity encourages us to ask questions, seek knowledge, and challenge assumptions. It is the foundation for lifelong learning and personal development. By cultivating a curious mindset, we open ourselves to new experiences and perspectives, enriching our lives and expanding our understanding of the world.

In the face of locked doors and seemingly insurmountable challenges, optimism becomes a powerful ally. By maintaining an open mind and a hopeful outlook, we can see beyond the barriers and envision a future filled with potential. This optimistic perspective allows us to identify opportunities that others might overlook and to approach each situation with a sense of possibility. Optimism is not about ignoring reality but about focusing on possibilities and solutions. It involves cultivating a positive outlook and believing in our ability to overcome challenges and achieve our goals. By embracing optimism, we create a mindset that fosters resilience and perseverance, enabling us to navigate life's ups and downs with grace and confidence.

The journey of self-transformation is not a destination but a continuous process of growth and change. It requires courage, acceptance, self-awareness, curiosity, and optimism. By embracing these qualities, we can release the past and step into a future where we are not bound by limitations but are instead empowered to create the lives we envision. In this journey, we learn that while miracles may not come to us, the true miracle lies within our ability to transform ourselves and our lives through intentional action and unwavering courage. As we navigate this path, we become not only resilient and perseverant but also profoundly connected to the boundless potential within us. Through this journey, we discover that the power to change lies within us, and it is through our actions and choices that we shape our destiny. By embracing change and releasing the past, we open ourselves to a future filled with endless possibilities and opportunities for growth and fulfillment.

Source: Malcolm Thomas

Kwame Nkrumah and the introduction to the book 📚📚📖📚 “Class Struggle in Africa”

There are different and diverse political, social and economic conditions in Africa, and generalizing about political, social and economic patterns is not easy. Remnants of sectarianism and feudalism still exist.  Living patterns have barely changed in parts of the continent, and a high degree of industrialization and urbanization has been achieved in other areas. But despite Africa's social, economic and political diversity, it is possible to distinguish specific and common political, social and economic conditions and problems. These conditions and problems result from a traditional past, from common aspirations, and from the common experience under the yoke of imperialism, colonialism, and neo-colonialism. There is no region on the continent that has not suffered from oppression and exploitation, nor is there any region that exists outside the processes of the African revolution. The unity of the basic purpose of the peoples of Africa is becoming clearer everywhere, and no African leader can survive unless he pretends to support the African revolutionary goals of comprehensive liberation, union and socialism.

In this situation, the ground is well prepared for the next decisive phase of the revolution, when the armed struggle born today must be intensified and disseminated, coordinated at strategic and tactical levels, and at the same time a resolute attack must be directed at the elements of the reactionary minority existing among our peoples; Because the tragic exposure in recent years of the nature and extent of the class struggle in Africa through a series of reactionary military coups and the outbreak of civil wars, especially in West and Central Africa, has demonstrated the unity of interests between neo-colonialism and the local bourgeoisie.

The class struggle lies at the heart of the matter. For too long, social and political experts have spoken and written as if Africa lay outside the main trend of the world's historical development, and as if it were a separate entity to which the social, economic and political models of the world did not apply. Myths such as “African socialism” and “pragmatic socialism” have been spread, myths that insinuate the existence of a type or types of socialism that applies only to Africa.  Much of our history has also been written from the perspective of social anthropological and historical theories, as if Africa had no history prior to the colonial period. One such distortion was to suggest that class structures found in other parts of the world did not exist in Africa.

This is far from the truth. There is a fierce class struggle being waged in Africa, the evidence of which is all around us, and it is, in essence, a struggle between the oppressors and the oppressed, as is the case in the rest of the world.

The African revolution is a full part of the world socialist revolution, and to the extent that the class struggle is fundamental in the world revolutionary processes, this struggle is fundamental in the struggle of the workers and peasants of Africa.

Class divisions in modern Africa became somewhat blurred during the pre-independence period, when national unity seemed to exist and all classes banded together to oust the colonial power. This is what led some to declare that there are no class divisions in Africa, and that the sectarianism and egalitarianism of traditional African society does not recognize any concept called “class struggle.”  But this lie was quickly exposed after independence, when class antagonisms that had been obscured by the struggle to gain political freedom resurfaced, and these antagonisms often became more acute, especially in those countries where the newly independent government pursued socialist policies.

Because the African bourgeoisie - the class that flourished during the colonial era - is the same class that currently benefits from the post-independence and neo-colonial period;  Its primary interest lies in the preservation of capitalist economic and social structures - it is therefore allied with international financial monopoly capital and with neo-colonialism, and it is also in direct conflict with the African masses, whose ambitions can only be realized through scientific socialism.

Although the African bourgeoisie is small in number, and lacks the financial and political power possessed by its counterparts in highly industrialized countries, it gives the impression that it is economically strong; Because of its close connection with foreign financial capital and commercial interests. Many members of the African bourgeoisie work for foreign companies and thus have a direct financial interest in the continued foreign economic exploitation of Africa. There are other people who are connected to capitalism because of their Western background, upbringing, shared experience, and privileged positions. They are especially present in the civil service, in commercial and mining companies, in the armed forces, in the police, and in prestigious professions. They are fascinated by capitalist institutions and organizations and blindly imitate the way of life of their former colonial masters, determined to maintain the status and power they inherited from them.

Africa carries within it a core of bourgeoisie similar to the colonialists and settlers in that it lives in positions of privilege; They are a small minority, selfish, obsessed with money, and reactionary, and they live among large masses of exploited and oppressed people. Although the African bourgeoisie seems strong because of the support of the neo-colonialists, they are very weak. Their lives are tied to foreign support, and they are unable to maintain their positions and privileges once this vital cord is cut. They and the “invisible hand” of neo-colonialism and imperialism that support and sustain reactionism and exploitation are now trembling before the growing tide of worker and peasant consciousness in the class struggle in Africa.

#Africa #Ghana

20 FACTS ABOUT BOTSWANA 🇧🇼

(1). In Botswana, citizens get free land, free healthcare and free education.

(2). University students receive $154 in allowances monthly.

(3). It has low debt.

(4). It has Africa's best Police service.

(5). It is an upper middle income country.

(6). It has Africa's highest credit rating.

(7). It is one of the safest countries in Africa.

(8). Citizens have visa free access or visa on arrival status to 87 countries including the UK.

(9). Citizens offered loans (50%grants for youth) to start businesses.

(10). Botswana is a landlocked nation located in Southern Africa. The country covers an area of 224,610 sq mi and has a population of , 2,346,179 (2022 Census) makes it one of the least densely populated in the world.

(11). Botswana Has Africa’s Highest Concentration Of Elephants:

Botswana is home to approximately 130,451 elephants.

(12). Over 70% Of Botswana’s Total Area Is Desert:

The semi-arid sandy savanna of the Kalahari Desert occupies over 70% of Botswana's total area.

(13). One Of The Seven Natural Wonders Of Africa Is Located In Botswana:

The Okavango Delta is a massive inland delta located in the Kalahari Desert of Botswana. Formed by the Okavango River. Also designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

(14). Botswana Is Africa’s Oldest Continuous Democracy.

(15). Botswana Is The Best Place To See Meerkats In The Wild:

Meerkats are small carnivorans from the mongoose family.

(16). Botswana Is One Of The World’s Biggest Diamond Producers:

Botswana is the world’s second largest producer of diamonds.

(17). The Name Of Botswana’s Currency Means “Rain”: 

The pula is the currency of Botswana. The word pula literally means "rain" in the local Setswana language. Since much of Botswana is desert, rainfall is a rare event in the country, and is therefore highly valuable and considered to be a blessing.

(18). Botswana Is Nature-Friendly: Approximately 38% of Botswana’s territory is protected as national parks, sanctuaries, reserves, and wildlife management areas.

(19). Botswana Contains One Of The World’s Largest Salt Pans: 

Located in the dry savanna of north-eastern Botswana, the Makgadikgadi Pan is one of the largest salt pans in the world (The Cradle of Mankind).

(20). Botswana is a former British Protectorate (then Bechuanaland) that gained independence in 1966.

BENIN CITY

Firearm made of Brass and Iron and another firearm made of Iron and Wood, ca. 18th century, Benin City, Nigeria, National Museum, Benin.

The complete manufacture of firearms was accomplished in some societies during the 19th century such as the empire of Samori Ture, the Merina kingdom of Madagascar and the Ethiopian Empire under Tewodros. In the 1880s Samori concentrated 300-400 ironworkers in the village of Tete where they succeeded in manufacturing flintlocks at a cost lower than the price paid for those bought from Freetown.

Tete was evacuated in 1892 and its armament workers were reassembled at Dabakol under the direction of an artificer who had spent several months in a French arsenal. They succeeded in making effective copies of Kropatschek repeating rifles at a rate of two of these guns per day.

#Beauty #Africa #Black

HISTORY LESSON

Many dìed even before passing through this door due to starvation, maltreatment and some committed suicide even before passing through this door, many were forced to trek for days and weeks from the hinterland areas of Africa where they díed on the road, meanwhile some díed at sea, while some reached a faraway land where they were subjected into hard labor. The moment they passed through this door there was no looking back.

You are looking at "The Door òf No Return", Cape Coast Castle, Ghana 🇬🇭.

The name was changed from "D00R 0F N0 RETURN" to "D00R 0F RETURN" to signify the return of the ensĺaved descendents and to acknowledge the history of their ancestors.

Each year, Ghana celebrates Emancipation Day which welcomes people from the African Diaspora back to their homeland.

May the souls of our Ancestor's rest in power! Ase!

HISTORY LESSON

The Ishango Bone

Our Ancestors have been credited with pioneering the fundamental principles of arithmetic approximately 25,000 years ago. Evidence of this can be found in the Ishango bone, a tool handle discovered in the Ishango region of Zaïre (now known as Congo) near Lake Edward. Initially believed to be around 8,000 years old, recent advancements in dating techniques have revealed that the bone tool is actually 25,000 years old.

The Ishango bone features three rows of notches, each with its own significance. In the first row, three notches are carved next to six, four notches are carved next to eight, ten notches are carved next to two fives, and finally, a seven is represented. These notches symbolize the process of doubling, with the numbers 3 and 6, 4 and 8, and 10 and 5 illustrating this concept.

Moving on to the second row, we observe eleven notches carved next to twenty-one notches, as well as nineteen notches carved next to nine notches. These notches represent the addition and subtraction operations, specifically 10 + 1, 20 + 1, 20 – 1, and 10 – 1.

Lastly, the third row showcases eleven notches, thirteen notches, seventeen notches, and nineteen notches. These numbers, namely 11, 13, 17, and 19, are prime numbers falling between the range of 10 and 20.

The Ishango bone serves as a remarkable testament to the mathematical prowess and ingenuity of Africans, who laid the foundation for basic arithmetic thousands of years ago. 

#Black #Africa

African Heroes And Heroines (4)

Queen Nzinga (approximately 1583–1663) is honored as a national heroine in Angola for numerous significant reasons, stemming from her remarkable leadership, opposition to colonialism, and lasting impact. Her life and deeds have established her as a powerful emblem of strength, resilience, and national pride. Nzinga is primarily recognized for her staunch opposition to Portuguese colonization. During a  period when the Portuguese were aggressively expanding their influence and exploiting African resources and populations, Nzinga emerged as a formidable opponent. Her capacity to lead extended military campaigns and utilize guerrilla warfare effectively disrupted Portuguese attempts to control the area. Her resistance stands as a potent symbol of defiance and bravery in the face of foreign domination.

Nzinga's diplomatic skills were extraordinary, matching her military expertise. She adeptly negotiated treaties and formed alliances to safeguard her people and uphold her kingdom's independence. Her famous negotiation with the Portuguese governor, using a servant as a human chair to assert her equal status, exemplifies her strategic thinking and determination to maintain her dignity and authority. Nzinga's diplomacy enabled her to navigate intricate political landscapes, managing relationships with European powers and neighboring African states.

As a ruler, Nzinga displayed exceptional leadership and statecraft. Upon ascending the throne of Ndongo and later Matamba, she turned her kingdom into a formidable and resilient state. She reorganized her armies, fortified her territories, and ensured the well-being of her people. Nzinga's capacity to lead and motivate her subjects during times of war and peace underscores her effectiveness as a leader.

Nzinga tirelessly advocated for the freedom and well-being of her people, vehemently opposing the transatlantic slave trade and working to prevent their enslavement. Her dedication to protecting her subjects from exploitation and slavery showcases her compassion and unwavering commitment to justice.

Nzinga's cultural and national legacy in Angola is profound, leaving a lasting impact on the country's identity. She is revered in Angolan folklore, literature, and history as a symbol of resistance and resilience. Her story is integrated into educational curricula and commemorated in national events, serving as a source of inspiration for future generations. Nzinga's life embodies the enduring spirit of the Angolan people in their struggle for independence and self-determination.

Nzinga's prominence as a formidable female leader during a time when society was predominantly male positions her as a significant advocate for gender empowerment. Her effective reign and military prowess challenge conventional gender norms, demonstrating that women are capable of leading and influencing historical narratives. Nzinga's legacy continues to motivate women in Angola and beyond to seek leadership roles and confront injustice. Queen Nzinga stands as a heroine in Angola due to her remarkable resistance against Portuguese colonization, her outstanding diplomatic and military abilities, her empathetic leadership, and her profound influence on the nation's cultural and historical identity. Nzinga's life and legacy embody the strength, resilience, and enduring spirit of the Angolan people, establishing her as a venerated and inspirational figure in the annals of the country's history. 

#Africa #Black #Blackhistory

📸 Queen Nzinga monument in Angola 🇦🇴

Nigerians in diaspora at the Olympics

Nigérians🇳🇬 won medals at the Olympics, yet Team Nigeria had 0 medals. Behind each story are individual attempts to improve their lives and also honour the countries that embraced them.

●Yemisi Ogunleye🇳🇬 wins gold🥇medal in Shot Put for Germany🇩🇪.

●Salwa Eid Naser (formerly Ebele Agbapuonwu🇳🇬) wins Silver🥈 medal for Bahrain🇧🇭 in women's 400m.

●Annette Echikunwoke🇳🇬 wins Silver🥈medal for USA🇺🇸 in Women's Hammer throw.

●Victoria Ohuruogu 🇳🇬 wins bronze medal in the women's 4x400-metre relays for Great Britain 🇬🇧.

Also Samu Omorodion New Chelsea striker was part of the Spain U-23 team that went all the way to win the gold medal in men’s football at the Olympics 🏅

Great people, resilient, just can't allow your  leaders to ƙill your dreams.

HISTORY LESSON

They were called the 8th wonder of the world. Millie and Christine McKoy were African American conjoined twins born on 11 July 1851 to Jacob and Monemia McKoy, who were slaves.

They were sold three times between the ages of 6 months and 6 years. They were joined at the lower spine. To overcome their mobility issues, which caused them to fall over, they developed a sideways walk that turned into a crowd-pleasing dance style. Their slave masters used them as circus and sideshow attractions in parts of the United States and Europe.

On 1st January 1863, Millie and Christine were freed as slaves when the Emancipation Proclamation was passed.

Their motto was ‘As God decreed, we agreed.’  They had amazing singing voices and were known as the Two-Headed Nightingale. 

They became celebrities who travelled to many countries to perform and even appeared with the Barnum Circus and also performed before the queen of England.

They could speak English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian as well as sing and play the piano to a high standard.

On 8th October 1912, Millie and Christine died at age 61 of tuberculosis.

#Historylovers #Historyfacts #History #Blackhistory #Blackhistory365 #BlackHistoryMatters #Afroamerican

African Heroes and Heroines (3)

Taharka

_________

Taharka, alternatively spelled Taharqa, played a crucial role in ancient African history, specifically during the 25th Dynasty of Egypt, also referred to as the Nubian Dynasty. He is celebrated as an African hero due to his exceptional leadership, military skills, cultural impact, and efforts in promoting harmony between Nubia (Kush) and Egypt. These are the main factors behind Taharka's status as an African hero.

Taharka governed as Pharaoh of Egypt from 690 to 664 BCE. During his rule, there was a significant increase in prosperity, stability, and cultural flourishing in Egypt and Nubia. His leadership was characterized by a commitment to peace and the promotion of economic development through efficient administration.

Taharka introduced a range of administrative changes that bolstered the central authority and enhanced the governance of the extensive territories he ruled. He advocated for a more effective bureaucracy and upgraded the legal and economic frameworks within the area.

Taharka is well-known for his exceptional military prowess and dedication to protecting Egypt from external threats. He effectively commanded his troops in battles against the Assyrians, a formidable enemy during his reign. His strategic brilliance and courage are evident in the detailed accounts found in inscriptions and historical documents recounting his military campaigns. He made a significant impact in military history with his notable victory at the Battle of Eltekeh in 701 BCE, successfully thwarting the Assyrian invasion into the Levant. His strategic actions were instrumental in safeguarding Egypt's sovereignty and upholding peace in the region.

Taharka was a prominent supporter of the arts and architecture, launching a variety of construction initiatives that included temples, pyramids, and other grand edifices. Among his most significant contributions is the enlargement of the Temple of Amun at Karnak, which stands as one of the most important religious sites in ancient Egypt.  Taharka upheld the custom of advancing the veneration of Amun, a revered deity in Egypt and Nubia.

His backing of religious establishments and rituals contributed to the unification and reinforcement of cultural and spiritual ties between the two regions. Taharka's rule demonstrates the unity and cooperation between Nubia and Egypt, showcasing the potential for collaboration and mutual growth among diverse African civilizations, nurturing a collective sense of identity and common goals.

Taharka's impact on history and culture persists due to the contributions he made while ruling. His work to unite and advance the region had a lasting effect that shaped future generations. Taharka's defiance of Assyrian expansionism stands out as a key element of his bravery. Even in the face of a powerful enemy, he was able to put up a robust defense, showcasing the unwavering resolve and courage of African rulers in safeguarding their independence.

Taharka's rule and accomplishments were a source of motivation for upcoming African leaders. His leadership showcased the ability of African rulers to effectively govern extensive and intricate regions, all the while fostering cultural and economic advancement. Diverse historical documents, such as inscriptions and monuments, detail Taharka's rule and accomplishments.

These sources offer important perspectives on the past and culture of ancient Nubia and Egypt, enhancing our knowledge of Africa's cultural legacy. Taharka is revered as a prominent figure in African history due to his remarkable leadership, military achievements, and cultural impact, as well as his efforts in unifying and fortifying Nubia and Egypt. His legacy remains a testament to the vibrant and interconnected heritage of African civilizations.

#Africa #Africanhistory #Afrique

BLACK HISTORY

The Kandake or "Candace" was the title for queens and queen mothers (and often means the first royal wife) of the ancient African Kingdom of Kush, which was an ancient Nubian state centered on the confluences of the Blue Nile, White Nile and River  Atbara in what is now the Republic of Sudan. The Kingdom was a prosperous land ruled from the capital, Meroe.  They were known as Nubian warrior queens, queen regents, and ruling queen mothers.  They controlled what are now Ethiopia, Sudan and Egypt.

 Kandake means “great woman”, and was used as a royal title or dynastic name.  It is sometimes translated into English as “Candace”.  Some of the queens ruled in their own right;  others ruled with their husbands, but these queens were not merely consorts, they usually had equal power with the king.  At least one kandake was the ruler while her husband was consort.  kandakes were warrior queens who led their armies into battle.

#Africa 

THE LOUVRE

The Louvre generates significant income through ticket sales, merchandise, and events, driven by its millions of annual visitors. For example, with over 9 million visitors in a typical year, ticket sales alone can generate substantial revenue, supplemented by earnings from guided tours, shops, and cafes. This income is crucial for covering the museum's extensive expenses, which include conservation of the art, building maintenance, security, staffing, and special exhibitions. The upkeep of the Louvre's historic building and its vast art collection requires continuous investment, ensuring that the museum remains a world-class cultural institution and can accommodate future visitors.

According to French historian Patrice de Moncan, “the Louvre, minus its contents, is worth a staggering $10.5 billion,” and its artworks and objects “have a likely MINIMUM value of $35 billion.” To put this into perspective, it would take someone with a $10 million annual salary 3,500 years to accumulate this wealth.

The Louvre is the most visited museum in the world. Prior to the pandemic it received around 10 million visitors according to theartnewspaper.com. Since the pandemic, they have decided to limit daily entries to 30,000, which should stabilise attendance at between 7.5 million and 8.5 million.

The Louvre was established as a royal palace in the 12th century and was transformed into a public museum in 1793 during the French Revolution. While the museum itself predates Napoleon's expeditions, the plunder brought from Egypt to France contributed significantly to the museum we know today. The term “acquisition of Egyptian artefacts” is misleading since violence was used and Napoleon did not remove Egyptian artefacts with any permission from the native Egyptians.

#World

The African and Southwest Asian Origin of Castles

Picture: Academic Reconstruction Of Aniba Fortress, Nubia, 1900 BCE

The origins of castle-building, often attributed solely to European ingenuity, are deeply rooted in a much older tradition of fortification that emerged from the North African, the Aegean, Southwest Asian, and Middle Eastern civilizations. These regions, marked by their complex societies and frequent conflicts, developed sophisticated methods of defense that profoundly influenced Roman military architecture and, through them, the medieval castles of Western Europe. To understand the true genesis of the castle, one must look beyond Europe’s borders to the ancient fortresses of North Africa and Asia, whose influence resonated across centuries and continents.

Origins of the First Fortifications in the Western Hemisphere

North Africa, particularly ancient Egypt, pioneered fortification construction as early as the Old and Middle Kingdoms. The Aniba fortress, built during Egypt's Middle Kingdom (circa 2000-1700 BCE), exemplifies early military architecture. Situated in Nubia, it featured thick mudbrick walls, watchtowers, and defensive bastions, designed to protect Egypt's southern borders and secure trade routes. This fortress, along with others like Buhen and Semna, showcased advanced strategies in defense that focused on controlling key territories.

These fortifications influenced neighboring civilizations, particularly through Egypt's interactions with the Nubians, Libyans, and later the Hyksos, who would adopt and adapt these techniques. The spread of Egyptian military architecture helped lay the groundwork for fortified structures across the broader Mediterranean and Near Eastern regions, eventually contributing to the evolution of fortifications in classical and medieval times.

Aegean and Middle Eastern Fortifications: The Foundations of Castle Design

Long before the first stone of a European castle was laid, civilizations in the Aegean and the broader Middle East were mastering the art of fortification. The Mycenaeans of Greece, for example, constructed massive citadels with “cyclopean” walls, so named for their immense, seemingly superhuman size. These structures, such as the famous Lion Gate at Mycenae, were designed to protect against both external enemies and internal strife, embodying the earliest principles of defensive architecture that would later echo in European designs.

Meanwhile, in the ancient Near East, the Assyrians and Babylonians were developing fortified cities that would serve as models for later military constructions. The Assyrian capital of Nineveh, with its extensive walls and gates, and the towering ziggurats of Babylon, though religious in purpose, also demonstrated an advanced understanding of the strategic importance of height and visibility in defense—concepts that would become crucial in castle design. These early fortifications were not just military structures; they were symbols of power, control, and the divine right of kings, themes that would be deeply woven into the fabric of medieval European castles.

Roman Adaptation and Dissemination of Eastern Fortification Techniques

The Romans, during their expansive conquests across the Mediterranean and into the Middle East, encountered these advanced fortifications and adapted them to suit their own military needs. Roman fortresses, or "castra," were heavily influenced by the designs they observed in the East. The Roman castra were methodically planned, with fortified walls, gates, and towers that reflected a synthesis of indigenous Roman engineering with the defensive techniques they had learned from their eastern adversaries.

One of the most significant examples of this synthesis can be seen in the Roman limes, the fortified frontiers that marked the edges of the Empire. The limes, stretching across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, were a complex network of forts, watchtowers, and walls, inspired by the military architectures of the regions they bordered. The forts along Hadrian’s Wall in Britain, for instance, bear striking similarities to the fortifications of the Middle East, demonstrating the direct transmission of architectural knowledge.

The Transmission to Medieval Europe: The Birth of the Castle

As the Roman Empire crumbled and Europe descended into the chaos of the early medieval period, the need for local defense became paramount. The remnants of Roman military architecture provided a foundation upon which the nascent kingdoms of Europe began to build. Early medieval fortifications, such as the motte-and-bailey castles that dotted the landscape of Norman England, were directly descended from Roman and, by extension, Eastern prototypes.

However, the Crusades in the 11th and 12th centuries were perhaps the most significant vector for the transmission of Middle Eastern fortification techniques to Europe. European crusaders encountered the imposing castles of the Levant, such as Krak des Chevaliers in present-day Syria, which featured concentric walls, arrow slits, and fortified gates—innovations that would soon be replicated in Europe. Upon their return, these crusaders, now seasoned in the art of siege warfare and fortified construction, brought with them a wealth of knowledge that transformed the castles of Europe into the imposing structures we recognize today.

Conclusion: A Legacy Misattributed

The castles that dominate the European landscape, often seen as symbols of Western architectural achievement, owe much of their design and construction principles to the fortifications of North Africa, the Aegean, Southwest Asia, and the Middle East. These structures were not born out of thin air but were instead the culmination of millennia of cross-cultural exchange, adaptation, and innovation. By recognizing the Asian and North African origins of these iconic buildings, we gain a fuller understanding of the interconnectedness of world cultures and the shared legacy that continues to shape our built environment. 

#Africa #World

HISTORY LESSON

The West African Frontier Force (WAFF) was a multi-battalion field force, formed by the British Colonial Office in 1900 to garrison the West African colonies of Nigeria, Gold Coast, Sierra Leone and Gambia. They were used to prevent democracy and self-government from growing in West Africa but they were later redeployed to participation in world war 1 and 2. In 1928, it received royal recognition, becoming the Royal West African Frontier Force (RWAFF). They contributed 200,000 combatants and West African Carriers Corps porters to both world war 1 and world war 2, while experiencing oppression in Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone and Gambia. West African carrier corps often recruited by forced labour and West Africans were reluctant to serve knowing they might not return home. The Carriers were divided into three Carrier Corps comprised of Sierra Leone Carrier Corps, Southern Nigeria Carrier Corps, and Northern Nigeria Carrier Corps.

African British military personnel from the Royal West African Frontier Force, Royal King’s African Rifles, and many other corps were generally excluded from the July 19, 1919 Victory Parade and the 1946 Victory Parade in London, which caused significant controversy and is part of the broader issue of racial discrimination faced by colonial soldiers. They are not depicted in films, or included in GCSE content. Their military pensions were either not paid at all or not paid on time. There are no graves or monuments to honour them. When they returned home, they had to fight for independence from undemocratic governors imposed by the Foreign Office (previously called the British Colonial Office).  In Kenya, they were put in concentration camps for wanting to be treated like human beings; this was called the Mau Mau uprising.

Source: National Archives

https://media.nationalarchives.gov.uk/index.php/west-africa-first-world-war/

In total 2.5 million Africans contributed to world war 1 and 1.5 million contributed to World War Two.

Source: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)

https://courier.unesco.org/en/articles/first-world-war-and-its-consequences-africa

NELSON MANDELA

Nelson Mandela was released from prison on February 11, 1990, after spending 27 years behind bars. 

Mandela was imprisoned on August 5, 1962, when he was arrested and subsequently charged with various crimes, including inciting workers' strikes and leaving the country without permission. 

He was initially sentenced to five years in prison but was later tried in the Rivonia Trial and, on June 12, 1964, he was sentenced to life imprisonment for his role in fighting against apartheid.

#Apartheid #HumanRightsViolations #NelsonMandela #prison #freedom #Bars #SouthAfrica #strike #protest #EndBadGovernance #rivonatrial #capetown #longwalktofreedom