First published in 1921, and cited on
the Africa's Best 100 Books List, this is a standard work on the history
of the Yorubas from the earliest times to the beginning of the British
Protectorate. It is actually one of my favourite books. It reminds us of
the beauty, pain, violence and resounding relevance of Yoruba culture
(easily mirrored in other African ethnicities).
The first part of the book discusses
the people, their country and language, religion, government, land law,
manners and social customs.
The second part is divided into four
periods, dealing first with mytheological kings and deified heroes; with
the growth, prosperity and oppression of the Yoruba people; the time of
revolutionary wars and disruption; and, finally, the arrest of
disintegration, inter-tribal wars, and the coming of the British.
There are two appendices, one dealing
with treaties and agreements, the other giving tables of Yoruba kings,
rulers, and chiefs. The book also includes an index and map of the
Yoruba country.
It is illuminating and engaging and
strangely funny in its quaint often sententious tone. I would recommend
it as must-read text for all Yorubas and indeed all interested Nigerians.
This volume remains the standard reference for the history of the Yoruba people. Equip your library with a copy! (This
book has been out of print for quit some times now, but we were
fortunate to stumble on some few copies. FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED).
Price: N7,000
Payment On Delivery Available in Lagos and Ibadan
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