Early Modern African Kingdoms

1550-1700

Powerful African states (such as Songhay, Dahomey, Ashante, and Matamba) had complex political systems, vibrant cultures, and extensive trade networks. Their influence in governance, military prowess, and artistic achievements left a lasting legacy on the continent’s history.

Nzingha: Warrior Queen of Matamba, Angola, Africa, 1595

Fictional Royal Diary of a teenaged queen of Matamba

Dahomey: The Warrior Kings

Accessible overview of the Dahomey kingdom

The Royal Drum : An Ashanti Tale

Ashanti folk tale

Njinga of Ndongo and Matamba

Picture book version of Njinga’s story

The Asante Kingdom

Overview of the Asante kingdom

Anansi the Spider: A Tale from the Ashanti

Classic Ashanti folk tale

The Kongo Kingdom

Overview of the history and culture of the Kongo Kingdom

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