In this episode of Chaptered Minds, we explore Great Kingdoms of Africa edited by John Parker, which offers a sweeping overview of Africa’s precolonial history, focusing on the powerful kingdoms that shaped the continent. Our AI hosts discuss the political, social, and cultural legacies of African kingdoms such as Ancient Egypt, Nubia, the Yoruba and Benin Kingdoms, and the Zulu Kingdom. Each chapter, written by leading historians, highlights the governance, trade, and spiritual practices that made these empires thrive. The episode challenges Eurocentric narratives and underscores Africa’s rich and complex history long before European colonization. Tune in for an enlightening conversation on how these great African kingdoms have influenced the world.