A journey through history; Introducing the Three Classical Seasons of Ancient Africa

BY DAVE RANKIN

It comes as no surprise that the history of Africa cannot be surmised in the 600 or so words I’ve been awarded in this column. So my partner in this journey suggested that I take an easier approach to address the subject. Here is what I’ve decided to do; in the book Classical Africa written by Molefe K. Asante, he divides the history of our beloved motherland into Three Classical Seasons. It is this format I will be using for the remainder of this series. Now before I go any further, allow me to explain that all historians do things a little bit different; this  can be said for Asante’s approach to telling our story. However, for the purpose of this column, Asante’s work will serve as delectable references, points ready to be served.

The first Ancient Classical Season happens to be the “longest period in human history.” It dates from approximately 6000 BCE to 525 BCE. This is where the traditions of several civilizations were established. The practice of agriculture via irrigation was first developed. Husbandry as it was once called, was and still is a way of life among many tribes. Stones were used for constructing images, tombs and even the great pyramids of Nubia and Kemet (Items that this author will explore in the near future).

Also the world’s first democratic system was cultivated during this ancient season. Chancellor Williams, the author of “The Destruction of Black Civilization,” describes it as, “The highest development here where the people actually governed themselves without chiefs, where self-government was a way of life.” The worship of heavenly bodies, such as stars, planets, the moon and the sun gained a romantic lore among the people; unknown to many, breath myths would have been introduced to society during this Classical Season. All in all, it is safe to say that the traditions developed during this period set the foundation as a source of inspiration for those that followed.

The Second Classical Season took place around 525 BCE to 641 CE. Many historians call this a period of instability for our precious motherland. This is where the knowledge of the arts, sciences and mathematics were spread to the outside world. Neighboring countries such as Persia (present day Iran), Greece and Rome became interested in the resources of Kemet (present day Egypt). During this time, there were invasions by four different countries. Persia 525 BCE led by King Cambyses, Greece 332 BCE with Alexander; Julius Cesar and the Romans in 47 BCE, and the last were the Arabians 638 AD, whom have never left. Libraries, like the one in Alexandria, were ransacked and destroyed. Marriages were arranged and puppet dynasties under foreign control were formed. The land of the blacks was never to be the same.

The Third Classical Season between 641CE – 1600CE, brought a force that the continent had never seen before. The Arabian brought a new ideology that would go on to impact the future of Northern Africa. Here is where we can introduce the religion we know as Islam. Jihads, or religious wars, were fought to convert Africans. Some fought to the death to avoid conversion others were left with no choice and became followers.

This epoch also housed some of the greatest empires of the day. The kingdoms of Ghana, Mali and Songhay were established to add to an already rich history.  These kingdoms will be revisited in future articles, as they are periods that definitely require their own focus. In short, outlining the Three Classical Seasons certainly paves the way for what will be a delightful journey down memory lane. Join us next time as we make our way through one of the greatest historical journeys of all time, the journey through Africa.