Black History 10/28: Mali

Djenne-Djenno (250 BCE- 1000 BCE)

A little south to the Sahara, Mali developed the oldest known city of Sub-Sahara, which served as trading posts between the North and the rest of Africa. The Djenne-Djenno cities were rich in art and culture.

Djenne-Djenno culture had a unique political system. Undoubtedly responsible for the quick affluence of the Djenne-Djenno, this culture lacked a centralized power. Rather, the system they created was a collaboration between several groups. Certain families and certain ethnicities had specific craftsman skills. Benefitting from mutual exchange, these families would On the left is a terracota.

The Djenne-Djenno early history is still being studied. As a result, relatively little is known about their early history. One thing is certain, Djenne-Djenno maintained close ties to Timbuktu and both have similar architectural styles.

Djenne would grow in importance during the middle ages, occupying a strategic place for trading.