Discover Surprising Black History: Existence in America Pre-Dates Slavery

Before Christopher Columbus, Africans had already reached the Americas. Evidence suggests that West Africans journeyed across the Atlantic to the New World two centuries prior to Columbus's arrival.

Revisiting the Idea of "Discovery"

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, "discovery" refers to finding or learning about something previously unknown. Contrary to common belief, the presence of Black individuals in America may not have started with slavery.

Historical Journey

In 1492, Christopher Columbus landed in America, seeking a quicker route to Asia but instead finding the Americas. Columbus Day is observed annually on the second Monday of October in his honor.

Mansa Abu Bakari II, the second ruler of Mali, sought to explore beyond the Atlantic Ocean. In 1311, he dispatched soldiers on two hundred ships loaded with supplies to investigate the ocean's limits, with an order to not return until they discovered what lay beyond.

Legend has it that one ship captain reported encountering a powerful river at sea. The other ships carrying the explorers vanished beyond this point. Abu Bakari II then entrusted his brother with the throne and embarked on his own expedition with two thousand ships.

Contemporary historians, archaeologists, and scholars are uncovering data that suggests Abu Bakari II's expedition may have reached the Americas. This challenges traditional Euro-centric historical narratives that overshadow the achievements of Black people throughout history.

Reevaluating History Curriculum

While evidence points to early African presence in the Americas, this aspect of history often remains unacknowledged in mainstream education. The "Hidden Black History" series aims to shed light on lesser-known contributions of Black individuals and places, challenging conventional historical perspectives.