This fact may be oblivious to many Africans, but Africa is indeed the father of civilization. In fact, without the ancient Kemet, there would be no Greek philosophy; and if the Persians had not invaded Egypt or if the Greek had failed to access the ancient Egyptians’ Education, there would be nothing like Alexandria research center and Aristotle could not have written any book. But these are just but a few of African unknown facts that may form a topic of discussion on another day, but today — In this article, we will be looking at the 5 most powerful African Kings from history. Just to give you a hint, we will be looking at their great achievements, their great story and what exactly makes them formidable. So, if you consider your self a true African with an African blood, then stay put and learn something about your history as we roll the curtain:
1. Imhotep – Pharaoh of Ancient Egypt from 2200 BC
Imhotep is definitely one of the most underrated kings in Africa whose achievements are way above what an average man would term as miracles. To be precise, he was the first genius to ever pop up in the African history, and his intelligence made him the chief-advisor to king Zoster in Ancient Kemet’s third dynasty. Imhotep was an astronomer, an architect, a physicist, a philosopher and a poet. In addition to this, he was the man behind all the great designs in Egypt; for example, the Saqqara complex and the step pyramid.
His achievements earned him a series of titles; for instance, he was referred to as the High-priest of Heliopolis, the-first-after-the-king-of-upper-Kemet and the administrator-of-the-great-palace among a series of other titles. In addition to all that, he is also believed to be the author of the popular Edwin Smith Papyrus–a book with over 90 astronomical terms with 48 healing processes for different injuries. After his death, he was given the name Ascelipius, which literally translates to a medicine God. Apparently, his tomb still lies sacredly in Memphis, and is considered as a pilgrimage site for anyone who is seeking a cure.
2. Shaka Zulu – King of Zulu, South Africa, 1818 to 1828
Shaka Zulu is one of the most popular African kings who is well-remembered for turning Zulu warriors into great fighters. His fighters are known for using standardized weapons and great tactics to combat their enemy. As a result, Zulu became a powerful kingdom during the reign of Shaka until his death. From nowhere, Shaka Zulu devised a short stabbing spear called Assegai, as well as the large shields that could protect his regiments from the spears that were being thrown by his opponents.
Within a very short time, Shaka Zulu managed to transform his troops into a great fighting machine that made him to be feared by most of his enemies. In fact, most of them would flee on seeing his troops; and he eventually managed to ethnically unite all groups in South Africa. Up to date, he is globally remembered as a great military innovator as well as one of the most formidable leaders in African history.
3. Tenkamenin – King of Ghana from 1037 AD to 1075 AD
If it were not for King Tenkamenin, Ghana would not have reached its height of greatness. And up-to date, King Tenkamenin is widely known as the King who facilitated the Saharan Gold trade. Consequently, his Kingdom became an economic stronghold while his government became an admiration of many African Kings, as per the time. To add to that, he was very social to his own people and he would, on each day, ride on his horse just to listen to their problems and concerns. He insisted on justice and went a step further to give his people a platform to address their grievances and, at the same time, give suggestions.
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