Originally published in 1980 and here re-issued with an updated preface, this book deals with the role of the horse in the societies of West Africa during the pre-colonial period. It traces the history of its introduction and its diffusion within West Africa, and examines the problems of maintaining horses in such a harsh environment. The use of horses in warfare in analysed but the non-military aspects of the West African horse culture are also discussed, principally the use of horses as tokens of status and wealth. The book includes a review of the decline of the West African horse culture in the 20th century, reflecting the passing of a political system based on warfare and slavery.
By:
Robin Law Imprint: Routledge Country of Publication: United Kingdom Dimensions:
Height: 234mm,
Width: 156mm,
Weight: 385g ISBN:9781138591851 ISBN 10: 1138591858 Series:African Ethnographic Studies of the 20th Century Pages: 254 Publication Date:29 April 2020 Audience:
General/trade
,
College/higher education
,
ELT Advanced
,
Primary
Format:Paperback Publisher's Status: Active
1. The Introduction and Diffusion of the Horse in West Africa 2. The Supply of Horses 3. Maintenance, Health and Training 4. Equipment 5. Cavalry Warfare 6. Non-Military Aspects 7. Horse and Society in pre-colonial West Africa 8. The Decline of the Horse in West Africa
