Lesson 4: The Griots of West Africa (Early African Civilizations)
Reading
Introduction
A long time ago, in West Africa, there were special people called griots (pronounced "gree-ohs"). They were not kings or warriors, but they were very important. Why? Because they were the keepers of history.
Oral History
In many West African villages, people did not write their history in books. Instead, they told stories — from father to son, mother to daughter. The griots remembered everything: stories about brave kings, great battles, and important family trees. They knew who was born, who got married, and who became a hero.
Imagine a griot sitting by a fire at night, the stars bright above. Children and adults gather around, and the griot begins to speak in a deep, strong voice:
"Long ago, there was a great king named Sundiata. When he was a boy, he could not walk, and people laughed at him. But one day, he stood up, took a strong stick, and walked for the first time. He grew into a strong warrior and became the founder of the Mali Empire."
The listeners gasp — the boy who could not walk became a king!
Musical Griots
Griots did not just talk — they sang and played instruments like the kora, a harp with 21 strings. Their music made the stories more exciting and easier to remember.
Another famous story is about Gao. The griot might say:
"In the city of Gao, there was a river full of fish and gold. Traders came from far away — from the Sahara and beyond. The king of Songhai grew rich, but he was wise. He built schools and brought teachers to his city. Knowledge was as important as gold."
The Wise Griots
The people listened carefully, because these stories taught them about their past, their values, and their heroes. Griots were like living libraries — if a griot died, it was like losing a whole book of history.
Even today, some griots still tell stories and sing songs, keeping West African traditions alive.
Comprehension and Conversation Questions
Comprehension: Who were griots in West Africa?
Conversation: Can you tell me a story about someone in your family who did something special or brave?
Comprehension: How did griots share history with others?
Conversation: Is there a song in your culture that tells a story? What is it about?
Comprehension: Why were griots important to their communities?
Conversation: If you were a griot, what story from your life would you tell to your children or friends?