Uncovering Kaabu: The Kingdom and Its Storytellers

Griots, the storytellers of West Africa, are experiencing a resurgence in popularity. These individuals are responsible for preserving and passing down history through stories, poems, and songs. The term "griot" itself has an interesting origin, possibly derived from the Portuguese word "criado, " which means creator. This connection highlights the colonial influence on the term, adding a layer of complexity to its meaning. The significance of griots is evident in popular culture. For instance, the top movie in America last weekend, Sinners, features griots in its narrative. The film, set in 1930s Mississippi, portrays the griots' art as both healing and potentially dangerous, attracting evil. This portrayal underscores the dual nature of their role in society. The oral histories preserved by griots have inspired archaeological excavations of the vanished kingdom of Kaabu. This kingdom, which flourished from the 1500s to the 1800s, encompassed parts of modern-day Guinea-Bissau and Senegal. The stories of Kaabu's royalty and reign have been passed down through generations via the songs of griots. Much of what is known about the kingdom and its capital, Kansala, comes from these oral traditions. Archaeologist Sirio Canós-Donnay from the University of Valencia has been instrumental in uncovering the physical evidence of Kaabu's capital. The excavation, which began in early 2024, involved a team of Senegalese archaeologists. Their work has revealed tangible proof of the kingdom's existence, validating the stories told by griots for centuries. Modern-day griots, like Nino Galissa, see themselves as guardians of history. They interpret and preserve the stories of their people, ensuring that the legacy of Kaabu and its kings endures. Galissa, a descendant of the first griots of Kaabu, emphasizes the importance of their role in maintaining the historical record. The griots' songs, accompanied by the kora, a harp-like instrument, are a vital part of their cultural heritage. The kingdom of Kaabu emerged in the 13th century as a coastal province within the kingdom of Mali. After Mali's decline, Kaabu gained independence and prospered through trade, including the slave trade. This wealth allowed Kaabu to dominate the region until its eventual downfall in the late 19th century. The kingdom's end came when the king, seeing an approaching enemy army, set fire to the capital's gunpowder house, destroying the city. The excavation of Kansala, led by Canós-Donnay, aimed to uncover the physical remnants of the kingdom. The team, equipped with tools ranging from pickaxes to brushes, mapped out a site covering nearly 150 acres. They discovered fortresses, royal quarters, and evidence of extensive trade. The findings also included signs of a past detonation, confirming the griots' accounts of the city's destruction. The involvement of griots in the archaeological process was crucial. Canós-Donnay invited griots to the excavation site, allowing them to witness the validation of their stories. This collaboration not only confirmed the historical accuracy of the griots' songs but also empowered them as active participants in the preservation of their heritage. The griots' role in this process highlights the importance of local knowledge and community involvement in archaeological research.