THE HISTORY OF THE YORUBAS FROM THE EARLIEST TIMES TO THE BEGINNING OF THE BRITISH PROTECTORATE

Author: JOHNSON, REVEREND SAMUEL EDITED BY DR O JOHNSON
Price: £250
Publisher: George Routledge
Publication Date: 1921
Edition: First edition
Format: Original cloth gilt
Condition: Very good
Pages: lv + 684

Description:

First edition. Octavo. Original cloth, blocked in gilt to the spine. Ownership label of Martin Banham and Charles P Groves with his neat ink name. Cloth very slightly rubbed but bright and clean A tight, clean copy. Map and frontispiece in very clean condition. Offsetting to the front free endpaper. A very good, tight, clean copy. An important work and a very nice copy indeed. Very scarce.

Location: BR/DO

The Yorubas: A Short History

The Yoruba people represent one of the largest and most influential ethnic groups in West Africa, primarily inhabiting south-western Nigeria, with significant populations in Benin, Togo, and the wider diaspora. Known for their rich cultural traditions, political systems, religion, and art, the Yoruba have played a central role in the history of West Africa and beyond. Their story is one of resilience, creativity, and continuity across centuries of change.

Origins and Early Development

The origins of the Yoruba are deeply rooted in oral traditions and mythology. According to Yoruba cosmology, the city of Ife is considered the cradle of civilisation, where the gods descended to create the world. Ife remains revered as the spiritual heart of the Yoruba and is renowned for its artistic achievements, especially in sculpture.

Archaeological evidence suggests that Ife was already a flourishing urban centre by the eleventh century. The city became renowned for its naturalistic terracotta and bronze art, which demonstrated technical skill and artistic sophistication. These works stand as a testament to the Yoruba’s early achievements and their influence on African art as a whole.

Political Organisation

Yoruba society was historically organised into city-states, each ruled by an oba (king) and supported by a council of chiefs. While Ife held spiritual primacy, other city-states such as Oyo, Ijebu, and Ekiti grew in political and military strength. The Oyo Empire, in particular, emerged as a dominant power from the fifteenth century, extending its influence across much of present-day Nigeria and into neighbouring regions.

The political systems of the Yoruba were marked by a balance of authority and checks on power. Councils, guilds, and age-grade associations all contributed to governance, ensuring a degree of accountability. This complexity reflected a high level of political organisation and adaptability.

Religion and Beliefs

Yoruba religion centres on a pantheon of deities known as Orishas, who act as intermediaries between the supreme god, Olodumare, and humanity. Each Orisha embodies specific aspects of life and nature, and rituals, festivals, and sacrifices formed an integral part of Yoruba spirituality.

Divination, particularly through the Ifa system, was a cornerstone of religious practice, offering guidance and wisdom. Yoruba cosmology and religious traditions spread widely through the transatlantic slave trade, profoundly shaping Afro-Caribbean and Afro-Brazilian religions such as Santería, Candomblé, and Vodou.

Economy and Trade

The Yoruba were active participants in regional and long-distance trade. Their cities were centres of craft production, particularly in textiles, metalwork, and bead-making. Markets played a vital role in economic life, often presided over by powerful female leaders known as iyalojas. Through trade networks, the Yoruba connected with Hausa, Nupe, and other West African peoples, as well as with Europeans from the fifteenth century onward.

Colonialism and Modern Era

The nineteenth century brought significant upheaval. Internal conflicts, notably the Yoruba wars, weakened the political unity of the region. The imposition of British colonial rule in the late nineteenth century further altered Yoruba society, introducing new administrative structures and economic systems.

Despite these disruptions, the Yoruba adapted to changing circumstances. They became prominent in the fields of education, commerce, and politics, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s struggle for independence in the twentieth century. Yoruba leaders and intellectuals played central roles in shaping modern Nigeria’s political and cultural identity.

Diaspora and Global Influence

The forced migration of Yoruba people during the transatlantic slave trade left a profound legacy across the Americas. Yoruba traditions of religion, music, and language survived and transformed in new contexts, becoming integral to the cultural identities of Afro-descendant communities. Today, Yoruba heritage is celebrated worldwide, linking Africa with its global diaspora.

Conclusion

The history of the Yoruba is a story of creativity, resilience, and enduring influence. From the ancient city of Ife to the global presence of Yoruba traditions today, the people have demonstrated remarkable adaptability and cultural strength. Their contributions to politics, art, religion, and philosophy continue to resonate, ensuring the Yoruba remain a central part of Africa’s historical and cultural legacy.

Why buy from us?

At Hornseys, we are committed to offering items that meet the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our book collection is meticulously curated to ensure that each edition is a valuable and authentic piece of bibliographical history. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Authenticity and Provenance: Every book is researched, collated, and verified for authenticity.
• Expert Curation: Each book is selected with a keen eye for significance, condition, and rarity, ensuring a collection that is both diverse and distinguished.
• Customer Satisfaction: We strive to provide an exceptional customer experience, from detailed descriptions and provenance to secure and prompt delivery of your purchase.
• Returns Policy: We offer an unconditional guarantee on every item. If you wish to make a return, books may be sent back to us within fourteen days of receipt for any reason. We request advance notification of returns, and books must be returned in the same condition as sent for a full refund.

Explore Our Collection:

Visit Hornseys to explore our fine collection of rare and signed books. Whether you are an avid collector or looking for a special gift, our selection offers something truly unique. Located in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, our Ripon gallery has been a haven for book lovers, art enthusiasts, and collectors since 1976.

Thank you for looking.