Books in The Kingdoms of Africa series

Examines the history and culture of the Kanem-Bornu empire, and describes the effect of European contact

A history of the powerful Asante people of West Africa examines the influence of their many gold mines on their economics and culture and details the sophisticated and beautiful Asante artwork that is known throughout the world.

Surveys the history of the Fon Kingdom of Dahomey, one of the most powerful West African states during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, and describes the important role of its military women.

Explores the rich culture and grandeur of the Benin kingdom of Africa and explains how the Benin society has survived the changes and conflicts brought about by the arrival of Europeans.

Examines the history and culture of the Kanem-Bornu empire, and describes the effect of European contact

Traces the history of the Hausa people of West Africa, describes Hausa daily life and culture, and discusses the effect of European contact

Chronicles the rise of the Songhay empire in West Africa during the fifteenth century, its complex system of government, its dissolution under civil war, and the fate of its people

Discusses the establishment of the kingdom of Mali under Sundiata, the spread of Islam, Mansa Musa's pilgrimage to Mecca, and the civilization and fall of the kingdom

Provides information on the history and people of Senegambia

Describes the establishment of the Dahomean Empire of West Africa, examining its warrior kings, their influence on the political and social structure, religion, technology, and art, and their role in Dahomey's slave trade

Examines the history and culture of the Yoruba, a civilization that began more than 1000 years ago in the dense West African forest and rose to become a vital force in the modern nation of Nigeria

A study of the legends and history of the ancient West African kingdoms of Ghana, Mali, and Songhay, including background and commentary on Islam's influence in the region