Songhay and Mali: Armored Knights of the Sahara
El Jibaro
I would really enjoy am osprey title on the military forces and traditions of the Empires of Mali and Songhai, controlled most of the trade routes between Europe and sub-Saharan Africa for centuries. From their capitals in Timbuktu and Gao, leaders like Sonni Ali, Sundiata and Mansa Musa dazzled European and Arab chroniclers with their wealth and power. These armies relied on heavily armored cavalrymen supported by light cavalry, infantry and camel troops from many tributary nations. The Empire of Songhay was conquered in 1591 by a Moroccan army composed mainly of Spanish soldiers (both Christian mercenaries and Moorish exiles) with artillery and other firearms. Fascinating stuff!
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| crimean |
1
I don’t believe Osprey have covered Ancient/Mel African armies enough. Some of points raised by El Jibaro I wasn’t aware off and would be interested to know about. Osprey should explore this era of African armies further.
Posted: 17-Feb-2009 20:54
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| wardog |
2
I totally agree. These were strong, wealthy, and strategically placed states. Their story should definately be told.
Posted: 18-Feb-2009 05:36
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| Osprey Editor |
3
Thank you for this suggestion, I think the title ‘Armoured Knights of the Sahara’ sounds exciting! It is good to see that you are all interested in this idea – please would other people who are similarly keen let us know below, and I can pass the idea on to my editorial colleagues.
Posted: 20-Feb-2009 10:47
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| Saberfencer |
4
By all means go for it! Coverage of these rich and powerful, yet neglected African empires by Osprey would be an excellent idea. Truly, I did not know they relied primarily on armored cavalry and would love to learn more. Consider my support given.
Posted: 20-Feb-2009 17:12
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| Württemberger |
5
yeah, an excellent idea and great topic.
Posted: 22-Feb-2009 16:41
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| DeathDealer6 |
6
I'm another that says you should definitely pursue this topic. I had the pleasure of getting to know an officer from Mali's army while stationed at Fort Knox in the late 80's and he was very professional and a true scholar. It would be nice to get to understand a bit more of the military tradition of his country.
Posted: 23-Feb-2009 19:59
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| El Jibaro |
7
It is great to see the shared interest in medieval Mali and Songhay from fellow history buffs and from the Osprey editorial staff. Echoing other comments made here, the military history of these powerful Muslim African empires is both timely and fascinating. If a book is ever published on this subject, Osprey should feel free to use my suggested title of "Armoured Knights of the the Sahara" at no charge, but I would appreciate a complimentary sample of the book! :-) Francisco J. Gonzalez, aka El Jibaro
Posted: 24-Feb-2009 18:52
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| xavierb |
8
I'm for it too. I know nothing about this region or time period so I'm looking forward to learning more.
xavier
Posted: 26-Feb-2009 15:36
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| scanzler |
9
Yes definirely! The Kingdom of Makuria should be included though, if I remember correctly Ethiopia even sent knights to fight in the Crusades.
Would definitely buy this title. Armoured Knights of the Sahara is a perfect title for it, make it a Warrior title.
Posted: 13-Mar-2009 02:25
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| El Jibaro |
10
scanzler mentioned the Kingdom of Makaria and Ethiopia; while both the Nubian kingdom of Makaria and Ethiopia were roughly contemporaries with the Western Saharan kingdoms of Ghana, Mali and Songhay, they only had minimal contact, due mostly to the harsh travel conditions. In addition, Mali and Songhay were Muslim, while the Nubians and Ethiopians were largely Christians.
On the matter of the Crusades, the Europeans were vaguely aware of the Christian kingdoms south of Egypt, and they sent messages to their king, whom they named Prester John, asking for help during and alert the Crusades. However, the Ethiopians, surrounded by powerful Islamic enemies, were in no position to give assistance. I do believe that the Byzantines did sent messengers to Ethiopia seeking assistance against the Turks, but no help was forthcoming.
I would suggest that the medieval and Renaissance African Christian states, specially Ethiopia, deserve a separate Osprey title of their own
Posted: 08-Apr-2009 17:02
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