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African History

Introduction

The essay is aimed at analyzing different facets of the African history. The essay is divided into three parts where part one address the reflection of religious beliefs held by West African on the cosmology, society and the geographic location. In the second part of the essay, significant empires of the African history are discussed with the role of highlighted players and the early development of African states. Finally, the last section of the essay strives to explore significance and relationship of the given terms with the pre-colonial history of Africa.

Discussion

Reflection of the Religious Beliefs in West Africa

Religion holds the integral place in the life of Africans with significant influence on every aspect of their life. The traditional religion of Africa might be the sustaining faith that was held by their forebears and that has been practiced by today's Africans in various shades and forms having prime influence on each aspect of their life (Awolalu, p. 1). Most of the African cultures did not follow a formal writing system; however, they used the oral traditions as a way to preserve their history. This unique system enabled them to pass on information from one generation to other, either deliberately or by the use of survival songs and forms (Fyle, p. 4).

The religious beliefs and traditions have influenced the cosmology and African's concept of salvation. For instance, the research observations made in the field indicate that the religious ideas of the Akan people could be applied equally to other ethnic groups in Ghana. They believe on the multiplicity of spirits has been present in the universe (Larbi, p. n.d.).

Bantu Migration

This migration has its origination roots back to the Western African region. Bantu migrations were begun in the early era of Christianity and including this a series of migrations began that is attributed to shape the Eastern Africa. Ancestors of the majority of the current residents of the region were arrived during this migration from the north and west. One of the credits given to these migrations is that it helped shape the ability of societies in Africa to undertake the programs of modernization in colonial and postcolonial years. These migrations increased the accountability of local chiefs and during this era the region experienced the political centralization (Gennaioli & Rainer, p. 9).

Ewuare and Benin Empire

Oba Ewuare has played a significant role in the development of the Benin Empire where he brought reforms to give the political structure to the kingdom, the kingdom territories were expanded by him, and art and festivals were fostered by him. Ewuare is considered to be the first king of the Empire for the fact that he had left a remarkable legacy. His determined awareness, political and magician skills made him the most legendary ruler of the Empire. One of the significant works done by him is the Primogeniture law i.e. the idea of hereditary kingship. He ensured that an ideal monarchy was reinforced within Benin (Sharp, p. 1).

Osei Tutu and Asante Empire

The Ashanti ...