Season 6 Episode 1: The Swahili Coast
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Description
Despite being the most widely spoken African language on Earth, KiSwahili originates from a people who are shockingly small in number. However, what the Swahili lacked in numbers, they made up for in influence and fascination. Join us for our sixth season, as we dive into the history of the Swahili coast, and the fascinating history of how its residents became adept city-builders, advanced maritime navigators, sly traders, and the masters of many fascinating civilizations. This includes the greatest Swahili civilization of them all, the Sultanate of Kilwa.
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In today's episode, we chart the growth of Kilwa as a major economic center, from its growth as a manufacturer of lime and iron, to its rise as a middleman in the trade of gold from Africa's southern reaches, as well as its blossoming into a maritime power.
Published 11/11/24
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