Iron Age Gao: An Archaeological Contribution

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Periodical article

Title:	Iron Age Gao: An Archaeological Contribution
Author:	Insoll, Timothy
Year:	1996
Periodical:	The Journal of African History
Volume:	38
Issue:	1
Pages:	1-30
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Mali
Subjects:	Songhai polity archaeology history traditional polities Anthropology and Archaeology History and Exploration
External link:	https://www.jstor.org/stable/182944
Abstract:	Recent discussion of 'medieval' Gao (Mali) has relied primarily on historical evidence as a means to reconstruct and interpret events in the Niger bend region prior to the development of the Songhai empire in the early 15th century AD. The results of archaeological excavations and surveys conducted in the Gao region in 1993 allow a preliminary contribution to this subject based upon this new source of evidence. Three central issues are discussed: occupation in the Gao region (Koima, Old Gao or Gao Ancien, Gadei, Gao-Saney, Wadi-Gangaber) and the foundations of Gao itself; trade and the economic role of Gao (trans-Saharan trade, interregional trade, location and geographical orientation); and the functions of Gao Ancien (a centre of manufacturing and trade?) and Gao-Saney (a royal capital?). The author argues that the development of Gao was more complex than previously thought, and that the settlement structure within Gao, which served to facilitate both trans-Saharan and interregional trade, also reflects possible defensive concerns and the gradual acceptance of Islam. Notes, ref., sum.