Archaeological Excavation of Kansala, the Capital of the Vanished Kingdom of Kaabu

SOURCE www.npr.org
Seventh-generation griot in Guinea-Bissau composes a song about the new archaeological excavation of Kansala, the legendary capital of a vanished kingdom in West Africa. Griots play a crucial role in preserving and passing down history through stories, poems, and songs. Archaeologists uncover physical evidence of the kingdom's capital, validating the oral history passed down by griots for generations.

Key Points

  • Griots play a crucial role in preserving and passing down the history of the kingdom of Kaabu
  • Archaeologists uncover physical evidence of the capital city Kansala, confirming the historical accounts
  • Collaboration between griots and archaeologists to share the history with the community

Pros

  • Preservation of West African history through griots' storytelling
  • Validation of oral history through archaeological findings

Cons

  • Colonialist connotations associated with the term 'griot'
  • Destruction of the kingdom of Kaabu due to attack by southern neighbors