Glint Today in History The 12th Day Of October~IGBO

Here are some events that took place today the 12 day of October

Today in History: October 12

1492: Christopher Columbus landed on the island of Guanahani in the Bahamas, marking the European discovery of the Americas.

1915: British nurse Edith Cavell was executed by firing squad in Germany for helping Allied soldiers escape during World War

1968: Equatorial Guinea gained independence from Spain.

1984: The Brighton hotel bombing occurred in an attempt to assassinate British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.

1999: Pakistan's military seized power, ousting Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

These significant events shaped the course of history on October 12.

FOCUS:

Equatorial Guinea 

Pakiatan 

1968: Equatorial Guinea Gains Independence

Equatorial Guinea gained independence from Spain after 190 years of colonial rule. The country became a republic with Francisco Macías Nguema as its first president. However, Nguema's regime proved authoritarian and brutal, leading to decades of human rights abuses.

1999: Pakistan Military Coup

Pakistan's military seized power, ousting Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in a bloodless coup. General Pervez Musharraf took control, citing economic and social instability. Musharraf's rule lasted until 2008, marked by tensions with India and the War on Terror.

The significant fact in today's event is the present and involvement of the black richest tribe in the world  called Igbo in our today's Focus 

Igbos are arguably the founders of civilization with owner of the oldest writing pattern on earth called ISIBIDI it's believed that Ndi Gbo (Igbos , the ancient people) have the culture of traveling to places as known today but the ancient ages was for different reason which is civilizations , today's Igbo posses similar characteristics as they travel to with developmental and civilization spirit 

As we move today in to our Focus in today's history we found the great Igbo race in Both Pakistan and Equatorial Guinea 

Read both histories in full: 

History of Pakistan

Pakistan's history spans over 5,000 years, with various empires, dynasties, and civilizations rising and falling.

Pre-Colonial Era (3300 BCE - 1858 CE)

1. Indus Valley Civilization (3300-1300 BCE): One of the world's oldest urban civilizations.

2. Vedic Period (1500-500 BCE): Ancient Indian Vedic culture flourished.

3. Persian Empire (550-330 BCE): Pakistan was part of the Persian Empire under Cyrus the Great.

4. Mauryan Empire (322-185 BCE): Pakistan was a key region in the Mauryan Empire.

5. Gupta Empire (320-550 CE): A golden age of Hindu culture and learning.

6. Islamic Conquests (711-1200 CE): Arab, Turk, and Afghan invasions introduced Islam.

7. Mughal Empire (1526-1858 CE): Pakistan was a major province under Mughal rule.

Colonial Era (1858-1947)

1. British East India Company (1858-1877): British rule began.

2. British Raj (1877-1947): Pakistan was part of British India.

Independence and Political History (1947-Present)

1. Pakistan Movement (1940s): Led by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, resulting in Pakistan's creation.

2. Independence (August 14, 1947): Pakistan gained independence.

3. Early Years (1947-1958): Jinnah's leadership, followed by Ayub Khan's military rule.

4. Democracy and Military Rule (1958-1977): Alternating periods of democracy and military rule.

5. Zia-ul-Haq's Rule (1977-1988): Military dictatorship.

6. Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif (1988-1999): Democratic governments.

7. Pervez Musharraf's Rule:  (1999-2008): Military dictatorship.

8. Democratic Transition (2008-Present): Civilian governments.

Tribes in Pakistan

Pakistan is home to diverse ethnic groups, including:

1. Punjabis

2. Sindhis

3. Pashtuns

4. Baloch

5. Saraiki

6. Muhajirs

7. Siddi (Sheedi)

Siddi Tribe: African Origin

The Siddi (Sheedi) tribe, found primarily in Pakistan's Sindh and Balochistan provinces, has African origins. They are descendants of:

1. East African Slaves: Brought by Arab traders (8th-14th centuries).

2. Abyssinian Soldiers: Employed by Muslim rulers (14th-16th centuries).

3. Bantu People: Migrated from East Africa (16th-18th centuries).

Siddi people maintained African cultural practices, such as:

1. Traditional Music: Similar to African rhythms.

2. Dance: Influenced by African styles.

3. Cuisine: Incorporating African dishes.

4. Language: Retaining African linguistic features.

Notable Siddi personalities include:

1. Jam Saqi:A 17th-century Sufi saint.

2. Makrani: A 17th-century naval commander.

3. Sheedi Memon: A 19th-century merchant.

Despite facing marginalization, the Siddi community continues to preserve their unique cultural heritage.

The Siddi Tribe of India and Pakistan and their origin to Africa (Igbo)

A striking image of dancers from the Siddi Tribe of India and Pakistan has sparked a fascinating conversation about the shared history between Africa and the Indian subcontinent. The Siddi people, with their unmistakable African features, are a testament to the long-forgotten connection between these regions.

Recent affirmations by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the BRICS summit in South Africa have shed light on India's African origins. This revelation resonates with historical accounts suggesting that the Harappan and Dravidian civilizations of India were founded by Africans, specifically the Igbo people. Modi stated, "India's roots are in Africa... our ancestors came from Africa."

Historical records support this claim. The Aethiope Empire, which encompassed the Kush and Qut-Sul, predates modern ethnic designations like Igbo and Ijaw. Emperor Ganges of Aethiope, a notable ruler, left an enduring legacy, with the River Ganges named after him. The Greek historian Herodotus wrote, "The Ethiopians... were the first inhabitants of India."

The Siddi Tribe's presence in India and Pakistan dates back centuries. They are believed to have arrived as traders, sailors, and soldiers. However, despite their significant contributions, they remain marginalized. Mainstream media often overlooks them, and blockbuster Indian movies rarely feature the Tamil-Nadu indigenous black Indians or the African Indians (Siddi).

Systemic erasure perpetuates white supremacist ideology, fueling internalized racism. An average Indian pregnant mother often feels pressured to take Vitamin C and Glutathione to ensure a fair-skinned child, reducing the racist stigma. This disturbing trend underscores the need to reclaim and celebrate Africa's rich legacy in India.

The University of Nalanda, once a renowned center of learning, was destroyed by Islamic Turks fanatics in 1193. This tragic event erased invaluable knowledge about India's ancestors. The Persian historian Minhaj-i-Siraj wrote, "The city of Nalanda was sacked, and its library burned."

Ancient African empires and their connections to India are well-documented. The Kushite Empire, which spanned from Ethiopia to India, left an indelible mark. The Indian text, Mahabharata, mentions the Kushites as allies of the Pandavas.

Dr. Runoko Rashidi, an African historian, notes, "The African presence in India is undeniable... the Dravidian people of India are African." Similarly, Dr. Cheikh Anta Diop, a Senegalese historian, wrote, "The Dravidian civilization of India is African in origin."

As we delve into the archives, we uncover a rich tapestry of connections between Africa and the Indian subcontinent. Shared cosmological concepts, such as India's Yuga and Igbo's UGA, further solidify this bond.

It's time to shatter the chains of internalized racism and self-erasure. We must acknowledge our melaninated heritage and reclaim our history. The journey to self-discovery begins with embracing our shared African roots.

In the words of African scholar, Dr. John Henrike Clarke, "We must redefine our relationship with Africa... our heritage is not just African, but human." By uncovering and celebrating our forgotten roots, we can break free from mental shackles and forge a more inclusive, empowered identity.

Equatorial Guinea 

Equatorial Guinea: A Complex History

Equatorial Guinea, located on the west coast of Central Africa, has a rich and diverse history spanning thousands of years.

Pre-Colonial Era (Before 1493)

The region was inhabited by various ethnic groups, including:

1. Fang people: The dominant ethnic group, originating from the Cameroon Grassfields.

2. Bubi people: Indigenous to the island of Bioko.

3. Benga people: Living in the coastal regions.

4. Igbo people :Present in the mainland region, particularly in the Rio Muni area.

The Igbo people in Equatorial Guinea are believed to have migrated from southeastern Nigeria, specifically from the Igbo-speaking regions. They brought with them their language, culture, and traditions.

Pre-Colonial Kingdoms and Empires:

1. Kingdom of the Bubi: Flourished on Bioko Island from the 16th to 19th centuries.

2. Fang Kingdoms: Existed on the mainland, with various kingdoms and chiefdoms.

3. Igbo-influenced Kingdoms:  Emerged in the Rio Muni area, blending Igbo and local traditions.

Colonial Era (1493-1968)

1. Portuguese Exploration: Portuguese explorers arrived in the 15th century.

2. Spanish Colonization: Spain colonized the region in 1778, naming it Spanish Guinea.

3. Transatlantic Slave Trade: Equatorial Guinea was a major hub for the slave trade.

Independence and Modern Era (1968-Present)

1. Independence: Equatorial Guinea gained independence from Spain on October 12, 1968.

2. Francisco Macías Nguema: Became the country's first president, ruling with an authoritarian regime.

3. Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo:Seized power in 1979 and remains president to this day.

Igbo Tribe in Equatorial Guinea

The Igbo people in Equatorial Guinea are primarily found in the Rio Muni area. Before colonialism, they were known as:

- Ndowe: (also spelled Ndowe or Ndoli): Meaning "people of the river" in the Igbo language.

- Kalabari: Referring to the Kalabari people, an Igbo subgroup.

The Igbo in Equatorial Guinea maintained strong cultural ties with their Nigerian counterparts, sharing similarities in:

- Language: Igbo language dialects spoken in Equatorial Guinea.

- Traditional practices: Similarities in rituals, ceremonies, and customs.

- Art and craft: Wood carvings, textiles, and pottery.

Cultural Heritage

Equatorial Guinea's cultural heritage is a blend of African, European, and American influences. Traditional practices include:

- Makaku: A Fang people's ritual dance.

- Bubi: Traditional Bubi music and dance.

- Igbo Ekpe: A secret society among the Igbo people.

Tribes and Ethnic Groups

Equatorial Guinea is home to various ethnic groups, including:

1. Fang (85.7%)

2. Bubi (6.5%)

3. Benga (3.6%)

4. Igbo (2.2%)

5. Other groups (2%)

Challenges and Opportunities

Equatorial Guinea faces:

1. Authoritarian rule

2. Human rights abuses

3. Economic inequality

4. Cultural preservation challenges

However, the country also has:

1. Rich natural resources (oil, timber, minerals)

2. Cultural diversity

3. Tourism potential

4. Opportunities for economic development

Equatorial Guinea's complex history and cultural heritage offer valuable insights into the resilience and diversity of African societies.

Igbo tribe is the richest tribe in the whole world they are diversified and can be found in different parts of the world including Japan and many countries near China and west Asia , Igbo tribe can be grouped into many subgroups like Ijaw , Kalabari , Ndowe(Ndoki, Ndoli) etc but all Igbos maintained same or similar culture , rituals and  heritage , as you can see Ekpe in the history of Igbos in Equatorial Guinea is also the way it's in Igbos of Niger Delta rigion of Nigeria called Kalabari and the Igbo in Southeast Anambra or Abiriba of Abia state 

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