A Fistful of Shells

Discover the rich and intricate history of Africa in Fistful of Shells by Toby Green, published in 2020. This compelling book spans 656 pages and delves into Africa's long-standing global connections, challenging the narrative surrounding the 'Scramble for Africa' in the late nineteenth century. Green reveals how Africa's gold has been a cornerstone of economic power for Europe and the Islamic world since around 1000 CE. The book highlights the sophisticated kingdoms that engaged in trade with Europeans from Senegal to Angola, showcasing a time when these interactions were characterized by equality and mutual respect. The use of cowrie shells as a primary currency illustrates the complexity of these early economic relations. Fistful of Shells is essential reading for anyone interested in Africa's historical significance in global trade and its intellectual life, providing a fresh perspective on foreign relations and economic conditions throughout the centuries.