Nubia: Lost Civilizations

Nubia, the southern neighbor of Egypt, has a rich history of vibrant and adaptive peoples. This book explores their religious, social, economic, and cultural histories, from their Stone Age nomadic origins to their rise to power during the Napatan and Meroitic periods.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 17 October 2022
Publisher: Reaktion Books

Nubia, the oft-overlooked southern neighbor of Egypt, has been a vibrant and adaptable home to diverse groups of people for countless millennia. This comprehensive book delves into the rich tapestry of Nubian religious, social, economic, and cultural histories, spanning from their nomadic origins during the Stone Ages to their ascendancy during the Napatan and Meroitic periods, and concluding with the ongoing challenges of diplomacy in North Sudan.

Nestled amidst the ancient superpowers of Egypt, Aksum, and the Graeco-Roman world, Nubia's connections with these cultures have profoundly shaped its history through processes of colonialism and cultural entanglement. Sarah M. Schellinger presents the Nubians through their archaeological and textual remnants, emphasizing their remarkable richness and dynamism as a distinct civilization.

The Nubian people, known for their resilient spirit and rich cultural heritage, have a history that spans thousands of years. They were among the earliest civilizations in the region, with evidence of their existence dating back to the Stone Ages. The Nubians were known for their advanced agricultural practices, intricate irrigation systems, and impressive architectural achievements, including the construction of pyramids and temples.

Throughout their history, the Nubians faced numerous challenges and changes. They were conquered by various empires, including the Egyptians, Assyrians, and Persians, but they always managed to retain their identity and culture. The Nubian kingdoms, such as the Kingdom of Kush and the Kingdom of Aksum, were renowned for their wealth, trade, and political influence.

However, the arrival of Christianity in the region in the 4th century AD brought about significant changes. The Nubian kingdoms converted to Christianity, and their religious practices and customs were influenced by the new religion. This led to the development of a distinct Nubian Christian culture, which is still practiced today.

In the 16th century, the Nubian people were subjected to the slave trade by the Portuguese and other European powers. This led to the decline of their kingdoms and the displacement of many Nubians to other parts of the world. However, the Nubian people never lost their sense of identity and culture, and they continued to thrive in their communities.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Nubia and its history. The country of Sudan, which includes parts of Nubia, has been embroiled in conflict for many years, with the government fighting against rebel groups in the South. The Nubian people have played a significant role in these conflicts, and their struggles for diplomacy and self-determination have received international attention.

This book aims to provide a comprehensive and accessible account of Nubian history, from its nomadic origins to its rise to power and its recent challenges. It explores the religious, social, economic, and cultural aspects of Nubian life, and it sheds light on the complex relationships between Nubia and its neighboring cultures.

Through the use of archaeological and textual evidence, the book demonstrates the rich and diverse nature of Nubian culture. It highlights the contributions of the Nubian people to the development of African and global history, and it emphasizes the importance of recognizing and respecting the cultural heritage of all peoples.

In conclusion, Nubia is a fascinating and complex country with a rich and diverse history. This book provides a valuable insight into the religious, social, economic, and cultural aspects of Nubian life, and it highlights the importance of recognizing and respecting the cultural heritage of all peoples. By exploring the Nubians' religious, social, economic, and cultural histories, this book offers a comprehensive and accessible account of their remarkable legacy.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789146592