The idea for "Black Africa: An Illustrated History" was born out of a passion for telling the stories that have often been overlooked or misunderstood. We believe that history is more than just a series of events; it is the collective memory of humanity conceived from the experiences, struggles, and triumphs of countless individuals and communities. In creating this book, we have drawn from various sources, including archaeological findings, oral traditions, and historical documents. Our goal is to present a balanced and nuanced view of African history that acknowledges both the achievements and challenges faced by African peoples throughout the centuries. We are deeply grateful to the many scholars, researchers, and storytellers whose work has contributed to this book. Their dedication to preserving and sharing Africa's history has been an invaluable resource, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to every one of them.