Golden Rhinoceros: Histories of the African Middle Ages

A book by François-Xavier Fauvelle called "The Golden Rhinoceros" explores the forgotten history of medieval Africa, highlighting its role as a crossroads of civilizations and the contributions of African royals, thinkers, and artists to an increasingly globalized world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 09 February 2021
Publisher: Princeton University Press

From the advent of Islam in the seventh century to the voyages of European exploration in the fifteenth, Africa played a central role in a thriving exchange of goods and ideas. This period marked an African golden age, witnessing the convergence of civilizations in Ghâna, Nubia, and Zimbabwe, where African royals, thinkers, and artists emerged as prominent figures in a increasingly interconnected world. François-Xavier Fauvelle has masterfully brought this captivating era to life in his book, "The Golden Rhinoceros." This groundbreaking work meticulously weaves together written and archaeological evidence to present an unforgettable narrative that captures the rich social diversity of Africa while also highlighting the interconnectedness of Africa with the broader Muslim and Christian worlds.

The birth of Islam in the seventh century marked a significant turning point in African history, ushering in a new era of religious and cultural transformation. The spread of Islam brought with it a new set of values, beliefs, and practices that profoundly impacted the lives of the African people. One of the most notable effects of Islam was the establishment of Islamic empires, such as the Mali Empire and the Songhai Empire, which extended across vast territories and facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural practices.

During this period, Africa also experienced a significant influx of Arab and Muslim traders, who brought with them a wealth of knowledge, technology, and trade goods. These traders established trading networks that linked Africa to the wider world, enabling the exchange of spices, gold, ivory, and other valuable commodities. The trade routes also facilitated the spread of Islam and the Islamic culture to Africa, as Muslims traveled to the continent to establish mosques, schools, and hospitals.

In addition to the economic and cultural exchanges, Africa also played a significant role in the religious and intellectual movements of the Middle Ages. The rise of the Sufi movement, for example, was particularly influential in Africa, as it emphasized the importance of personal spiritual experience and the pursuit of divine knowledge. Sufi saints and mystics, such as the famous Saint Augustine of Hippo, were drawn to Africa, where they established communities and preached their teachings.

Another important religious movement that emerged in Africa during this period was Christianity. The arrival of European missionaries in the fifteenth century led to the conversion of many African people to Christianity, and the establishment of Christian communities and churches. Christianity brought with it a new set of values and beliefs that challenged the traditional African religious practices and beliefs. However, it also facilitated the spread of education, literacy, and healthcare to Africa, as Christian missionaries established schools, hospitals, and dispensaries.

The voyages of European exploration in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries also played a significant role in shaping the history of Africa. The Portuguese, Spanish, and French explorers were among the first to venture into the African continent, and their expeditions led to the discovery of new territories, the establishment of trade routes, and the spread of European culture and technology to Africa.

The voyages of Christopher Columbus, in particular, are widely regarded as a turning point in African history. Columbus's expedition led to the colonization of the Americas, which had a profound impact on the African continent. The enslavement of African people, the introduction of new diseases, and the disruption of traditional African societies and economies were all consequences of the colonization process.

Despite the challenges and disruptions caused by European exploration, Africa continued to thrive and evolve. The emergence of new kingdoms, such as the Oyo Empire and the Benin Empire, showcased the resilience and adaptability of the African people. African royals, thinkers, and artists continued to play important roles in shaping the world, and their contributions to art, literature, and philosophy were recognized and celebrated.

In conclusion, the history of medieval Africa is a rich and complex tapestry that encompasses a wide range of cultural, economic, and political developments. From the birth of Islam to the voyages of European exploration, Africa played a central role in a vibrant exchange of goods and ideas. This period marked an African golden age, witnessing the convergence of civilizations, the spread of Islam and Christianity, and the emergence of new kingdoms and cultural movements. François-Xavier Fauvelle's "The Golden Rhinoceros" is a masterful work that brings this thrilling era to life, carefully piecing together written and archaeological evidence to present an unforgettable story that captures the rich social diversity and interconnectedness of Africa with the wider Muslim and Christian worlds.

Weight: 426g
Dimension: 166 x 206 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691217147