ABSTRACT

Trans-Saharan trade routes were very influential in spreading Islam and Islamic architecture all throughout the West African region over a thousand years ago. West Africa has a rich history of cultural and religious exchanges. However, the region’s religious and architectural landscape has also been forever altered by the impact of European colonialism and the arrival of Christianity. A research gap exists in understanding the interaction between indigenous religious practises and the architectural manifestations of religious beliefs in the context of Islamic and Christian influences in West Africa, even though existing studies have contributed valuable insights into both of these historical transformations. Consequently, the primary purpose of this dissertation is to examine and contrast the impact of colonialism and trans-Saharan trade routes on West African religious architecture and societal growth. The study seeks to assess the comparative influence of these historical forces on modern infrastructure, linguistic manifestations, social norms, and inter-tribal dynamics. The study aims to develop a more thorough and improved comprehension of the effects of these religious and cultural exchanges on the religious architecture prevalent throughout West Africa today by analysing the region’s historical, religious, and architectural transformations. A critical analysis of historiographical accounts is conducted to identify potential discrepancies between West African and Western narratives, primarily focusing on understanding the consequences of such divergences for the global perception of West African nations. The research examines whether one historical factor has contributed more to or had any hand in the current state of West Africa and the dominant Western perception of the continent as the antithesis of innovation and development. This assessment considers the potential role of activism and social justice advocacy in shaping contemporary narratives concerning West Africa. The study’s conclusion emphasises the importance of preserving and honouring the region’s cultural heritage without altering the overall narrative to fit particular agendas. Preserving and honouring the region’s architectural heritage helps people better understand and appreciate the region’s diverse cultures and rich legacies.

CHAPTER 3 Religious Architecture in West Africa 13-

Case study 1: The great mosque of Djenne

Case study 2: Larabanga mosque

Case study 3 Elmina castle.

CHAPTER4: Historiography discrepancies 20-22

CONCLUSION 23

BIBLIOGRAPHY 24-28

Research Question

‘With the trans-Saharan trade bringing Islam to West Africa and Colonialism bringing Christianity, which narrative is more responsible for current socio-economic infrastructure, the effects on written/spoken language and societal rules, and the religious architecture of west Africa?’