The African City-States: A Rich and Diverse History
The history of African city-states is complex, stretching across vast regions and spanning thousands of years.
Their emergence began in North Africa with the rise of ancient Egypt and later the Carthage. Both civilizations are well-documented through written records, as are the other North African kingdoms of Numidia and Mauretania. These accounts provide us with detailed insights into their politics, economics, and culture.
However, for the city-states south of the Sahara, knowledge primarily relies on archaeological discoveries, as written documentation is scarce.
Archaeological site of Carthage
In North Africa, Carthage dominated through direct rule over its capital region, while relying on client kings, such as those of Numidia, to maintain control over its extended territories. One pivotal moment in history was the Battle of Zama in 202 BCE, where the Numidians, switching allegiance to Rome, helped the Roman forces defeat the Carthaginians. This decisive battle set the stage for the eventual destruction of Carthage in 146 BCE. Following Carthage’s fall, Numidia briefly enjoyed independence before succumbing to Roman control, marking the end of its city-state era.
Meroë East (Main) Necropolis
The Rise of City-States in East Africa: Meroë and Axum
Moving beyond North Africa, some of the most well-known African city-states emerged in what is now Sudan and Ethiopia. In this region, ancient settlements thrived near the confluence of the Blue and White Niles, where early peoples utilized the rivers for trade and sustenance.
The city-states of Meroë (900 BCE–400 CE) and Axum (100–1000 CE) grew from simple urban centers into powerful kingdoms, amassing large territories and wealth. These city-states were known for their advanced ironworking techniques, which played a crucial role in their military and economic dominance.
Interestingly, the area around Meroë is often referred to as the "Island of Meroë" due to the city’s location between the Nile and the Atbara River. The region was a major center of iron production, and the widespread use of iron weapons gave these city-states a significant advantage over their rivals. The use of bronze and iron in warfare is evident from the strategic placement of settlements, which prioritized protection from attacks over access to fertile land.
Many small towns and villages unearthed in Sudan show the importance of fortifications, a clear indication that defense was a top priority for these early city-states.
Area of the Nok culture
West Africa: Nok Culture and the City-States of the Jos Plateau
In sub-Saharan West Africa, the emergence of city-states is exemplified by the Nok culture of modern-day Nigeria. Flourishing from around 500 BCE, the Nok civilization left behind a wealth of artifacts, including terracotta sculptures, tools, and evidence of advanced metallurgical techniques. The abundance of these discoveries on the Jos Plateau suggests that Nok was a prosperous trading city, with a network that likely extended across the region. The sophistication of their art and metalwork points to a society with significant social and political organization.
While Nok is the most prominent, it is believed that other small city-states existed in the area. Archaeological evidence suggests that people from this region began migrating along the western coast of what is now Gabon, Congo, and Angola, as well as inland toward Lake Victoria. This migration may have contributed to the spread of ironworking and agricultural techniques, further facilitating the growth of urban centers.
The Great Zimbabwe ruins.
Great Zimbabwe: A Monument to Ancient African Civilization
One of the most remarkable African city-states is Great Zimbabwe, which emerged in the 11th century CE in southern Africa. This city, famed for its impressive stone structures, served as the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe. The iconic Great Enclosure, with its high, curving stone walls, remains one of Africa’s most significant historical landmarks. These stone buildings replaced earlier wooden constructions, symbolizing the development of a complex society with advanced architectural skills and social organization.
Great Zimbabwe was at the center of a vast trade network that connected the interior of Africa with the coastal cities of the Indian Ocean. Archaeological finds, including Chinese porcelain, Persian glass, and Arabian coins, provide evidence of the city’s role in long-distance trade. The kingdom was particularly known for its exports of gold, ivory, and cattle, which made it a major economic power in the region.
Curiosities and Insights:
- Ancient Ethiopian Megaliths: in southern Ethiopia, several ancient megalithic structures have been discovered, suggesting the existence of sophisticated early societies in the region. These megaliths predate many known city-states and could provide further insights into the development of urban centers in Africa.
- Carthage and its Legendary Founder: according to ancient mythology, Carthage was founded by the Phoenician queen Dido (also known as Elissa). Legend has it that she cleverly acquired land by cutting an oxhide into thin strips to encompass a large area for her new city. While this is likely a myth, it reflects the city’s longstanding reputation for strategic prowess.
- Nok Terracotta Figures: the Nok civilization is famous for its lifelike terracotta sculptures, some of which depict humans with intricate hairstyles and elaborate jewelry. These figures remain some of the earliest examples of West African art and offer a glimpse into the cultural richness of this early society.
- The Mysterious Decline of Great Zimbabwe: while Great Zimbabwe reached its peak around the 14th century, by the 15th century, the city had been largely abandoned. The reasons for its decline remain a mystery, with theories ranging from overgrazing and environmental degradation to shifts in trade routes.
Last update: September 30, 2024
DONATE Go to definitions: A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z
