LODs
What is an epic poem?
It is a long narrative poem, sometimes used to tell history
Who is Mansa Musa?
Mansa Musa was the king of Mali and the richest person in human history. He is known for his wealth, the journey he made to Mecca (hajj), and his emphasis on Islamic teachings and scholarship.
The use of oral history in Medieval African culture challenges which misconception?
The misconception that Medieval Africa was illiterate, because oral history is a form of literacy.
Is Africa a continent or a country?
A continent!
What is a griot?
Griots are keepers of oral literature in West Africa; memorized nations’ histories and laws
What does the word Matrilineal mean?
Inheritance, property rights and succession are traced through the mothers' side
The existence of Medieval manuscripts from the library of Timbuktu challenges which misconception?
Misconception #1: Medieval Africa was illiterate
What are the main resources traded in Mali, Ghana and Songhai?
Gold and Salt!
What is Oral History?
Oral History is a field of study and a method of gathering, preserving and interpreting the voices and memories of people, communities, and participants in past events.
This medieval West African empire conquered the Mali Empire
The Songhai Empire
Name one piece of evidence that challenges the misconception that Medieval Africa was isolated.
Trade with countries in Europe and Asia, Mansa Musa's journey (Hajj) etc.
Why was salt such an important resource?
Salt was used to preserve and season food.
What is the Manden Charter?
The Manden Charter is one of the oldest constitutions in the world and advocates for human rights, including social peace, diversity, education, food security, freedom of expression and trade.
What does the word misconception mean? Give an example.
Wrong or inaccurate idea of something/someone.
Ex: Medieval West Africa was primitive
Name one piece of evidence that challenges the misconception that Medieval Africa was insignificant.
Mansa Musa gave away so much money in Egypt that he destroyed the local economy for over 10 years. Africa's gold and salt used for trade in Europe and Asia. Timbuktu has a large collection of medieval islamic manuscripts. Etc.
Why is it important to know that Africa is a continent and NOT a country?
Diversity of people, culture, climate, language, size etc.
What is a proverb?
A Proverb is a poetic form that uses few words but achieves great depth of meaning. In Medieval Africa they were used to teach values and philosophy, solve problems and settle disputes
Who is Sundiata Keita?
Sundiata Keita was a warrior and the founder/first ruler of the Mali Empire. Under his leadership the Mali Empire created the Manden Charter. His rise to power and reign is the subject of the epic poem the Epic of Sundiata
The existence of a Matrilineal society challenges which misconception and why?
Misconception #2: Medieval Africa was uncultured/primitive because most societies passed down inheritance etc. through the father's line and West Africa placed more value on women and their roles in society.
What is the danger of a single story and how do we change it?
Limited point of view, only part of the story and gives a warped view of something/someone. Add "and" to make it more complex!