Surprising truths about African history, science, and culture — facts you were never taught.
Did you know that Lonnie Johnson, an African American engineer and inventor, created the Super Soaker, one of the world's best-selling toys?
Did you know that Mansa Musa, the 14th-century ruler of the Mali Empire, distributed so much gold during his pilgrimage to Mecca that it caused a decade-long inflation in the Mediterranean economy?
Did you know that ancient Egyptians performed complex surgical procedures, including brain surgery, as early as 3500 BC?
Did you know that Great Zimbabwe, a medieval city in modern-day Zimbabwe, was constructed entirely without mortar, showcasing advanced architectural and engineering skills?
Did you know that Dr. Cheick Modibo Diarra, from Mali, was not only a NASA astrophysicist who worked on missions to Mars, but also served as the interim Prime Minister of Mali in 2012?
Did you know that the Lebombo bone, discovered in Swaziland, dating back 44,000 years, is considered the oldest known mathematical artifact?
Did you know that Timbuktu, Mali, was home to one of the world's oldest universities, Sankore University, dating back to the 12th century?
Did you know that the Adire and Kente cloths of West Africa are complex textiles with deep cultural significance, utilizing intricate dyeing and weaving techniques passed down through generations?
Did you know that Great Zimbabwe, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was a thriving city in Southern Africa from the 11th to the 15th centuries, showcasing impressive architectural skills and a complex social structure?
Did you know that Great Zimbabwe, a medieval city in present-day Zimbabwe, was built without mortar, showcasing exceptional architectural and engineering skills of the Shona people?
Did you know that the Mali Empire, under Mansa Musa, controlled vast gold reserves and trade routes, making it one of the wealthiest empires in history and its ruler, Mansa Musa, arguably the richest person to ever live?