“Our Ancestors Were Material Scientists”

Archaeological and geochemical evidence reveals that the Yoruba people of West Africa developed a unique glassmaking technology, which persisted until at least the 17th century. This discovery challenges conventional narratives about indigenous technological advancements in Africa by demonstrating sophisticated material science practices among the Yoruba civilization. The study, conducted through collaboration between Black Studies and physical sciences experts, analyzed artifacts from Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove in Nigeria. By integrating field research with laboratory analysis, the researchers identified primary glass manufacture techniques that were previously unknown in the region. This finding underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration to uncover and validate Africa's indigenous technological heritage.

Ogundiran, A., & Ige, O. A. (2015). “Our Ancestors Were Material Scientists”. Journal of Black Studies, 46(8), 751–772. https://doi.org/10.1177/0021934715600964