West African Societies

Introduction to Pre-Columbian Transatlantic Navigation

Notably, other than Columbus, there were significant African figures in early transatlantic exploration. One of the most prominent was Abu Bakari Kita II, King of the Mali Empire, who embarked on an ambitious journey across the Atlantic Ocean nearly a century before Columbus made his famous voyage. His journey is referenced in documents by Mansa Musa, the renowned emperor of Mali, and also recorded by Al Umari, an Arab scholar and historian.

Expedition of Abu Bakari Kita II

Mansa Musa recounted that Abu Bakari believed it was indeed possible to reach the ocean's end. With this belief fueling his ambition, he equipped a fleet comprising 200 boats filled with men, provisions, and sufficient water for a prolonged journey. He specifically instructed the captain not to return until they either reached the ocean's end or ran out of supplies.

Outcomes of the Journey

The expedition resulted in a prolonged absence, with only one boat returning to report on the fate of the fleet. The captain recounted a terrifying encounter with a great whirlpool that led to the loss of almost the entire fleet. In disbelief of this failure and the potential loss of such a fleet, Mansa Musa organized a larger expedition, this time consisting of 2,000 boats. However, this monumental effort also ended in disaster, with the entire fleet disappearing permanently. This early venture potentially inspired Columbus for his third voyage, as rumors of these African travels had reached him, feeding into the narratives surrounding the New World.

Columbus and African Influence

Despite being an Italian explorer, Christopher Columbus's expeditions were heavily influenced by the historical presence of the Moors in Spain. As part of his journeys, Columbus employed a Moorish navigator named Pedro Alonso Nino, who brought expertise in navigation and knowledge of ocean currents essential for long sea voyages.

Documentation and Goals

During his third voyage, documented by Bartolome de la Casas, Columbus aimed to verify claims about African canoes sailing westward from Guinea. Moreover, he wanted to investigate local accounts in Hispaniola regarding sightings of black individuals possessing metal-tipped spears, a point of cultural and historical significance that underlined the interaction between West African cultures and the Americas.

Political Landscape in Africa around 1492

The year 1492 marked a pivotal moment in African history, particularly with the prominence of various empires and their leaders.

West Africa - Songhai Empire

The Songhai Empire arose from the remnants of the Mali Empire. Its founder, Sunni Ali, who passed away in 1492, had expanded the empire significantly during his reign. Accounts from the scholarly community in Timbuktu highlight Sunni Ali's undefeated victories and his ability to maintain control over the trans-Saharan trade routes, emphasizing the empire's wealth and power.

Benin Empire

In 1492, the Benin Empire was ruled by Oba Azulubah, who faced considerable political instability yet managed to expand the empire. This era saw the intertwining of history and folklore, where the Oba became a figure of public prominence through notable achievements in trade, diplomacy, and warfare.

Central Africa - Kanem Empire

By 1492, Mai Ali Gaji of the Kanem Empire began to recover power after a previous defeat, moving to re-establish a capital. His leadership saw significant territorial conquests and the creation of a new ethnic group called the Kunuri, indicative of the empire's evolving demography and sociopolitical dynamics.

Congo Empire

The introduction of Christianity by the Portuguese initiated a transformation in the Congo Empire, leading to the conversion of King Nzinga Mukum. His conversion was not purely spiritual; it was a strategic move to secure Portuguese support amid a burgeoning civil war. This partnership, however, was fraught with challenges, ultimately leading to the exploitation and control over the valuable natural resources of the region.

Southern Africa - Shonen Kingdom

The Mwene Mutapa Empire, led by founder Inyatsenda Mutota, expanded significantly under the rule of his son Matope. This kingdom's wealth surged due to abundant resources like copper and ivory, emphasizing how natural wealth facilitated the kingdom’s growth and regional influence.

East Africa

In East Africa, Emperor Eskender of Ethiopia fought fiercely against Muslim incursions throughout 1492, intensifying the conflict between Christianity and Islam in the region. His reign was marked by a strong military presence, asserting Ethiopian prowess. Following Eskender's death in 1492, his young son succeeded him, marking a continuation of political turmoil and conflict in the region.

Conclusion

The context of Africa around 1492 illustrates a significant yet nuanced engagement in exploration, conflict, and cultural exchange, occurring prior to and alongside European explorations. The dynamic presence of African empires and the influence of their leaders is critical in understanding the complex intercontinental interactions that shaped the historical narratives of both Africa and the Americas.