By TJ Kirk
Pop quiz: Can you name 10 kings or queens from history in 60 seconds? No Googling! Go!
How did you do? High five if you got all 10! But now here’s the real question: How many of the kings or queens you named were Black or of African descent? Let’s try again. This time, I’ll give you five minutes to name 10 notable Black historical figures from before slavery. I’ll even start you off with King Tut. Ready? Go! Was it harder this time? If so, you’re not alone. Most of us weren’t taught this history. I know I wasn’t. In school, I learned about Ancient Greece, Rome, Chinese dynasties, the Mayans and Incas, Spanish conquistadors, Vikings, and indigenous Americans. Ancient Egypt was mentioned, but its people were rarely depicted as Black. The first time I saw dark-skinned people in my history books, they were in shackles and chains. How is that possible? Was there no Black history before slavery? Or has it been hidden from us? I believe the latter. Black history didn’t begin in bondage—it is as ancient and rich as the earth itself. This Black History Month, I challenge you to look deeper. Here are 10 incredible Black historical figures who lived long before the transatlantic slave trade, whose stories are worth knowing and celebrating: Ten Extraordinary Black Figures Before Slavery
Imhotep (c. 2700 BC)
- Known as the “first genius” in recorded history, Imhotep was an Egyptian polymath—architect, physician, and high priest. He designed the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the earliest known pyramid, and is considered the father of medicine, centuries before Hippocrates.
Queen Nefertari (c. 1290–1254 BC)
- One of the most influential queens of Ancient Egypt, Nefertari was the wife of Pharaoh Ramses II. She was deeply respected and honored, as shown by her elaborately decorated tomb in the Valley of the Queens.
Abu Bakr II (c. AD 1310)
- Emperor of the Mali Empire and a predecessor of Mansa Musa, Abu Bakr II is said to have abdicated his throne to explore the Atlantic Ocean. Some historians believe his voyages may have reached the Americas before Columbus.
Hannibal Barca (247–183 BC)
- One of the greatest military commanders in history, Hannibal was a Carthaginian general who led his army, including war elephants, across the Alps to challenge the Roman Empire. His tactics are still studied in military academies today.
Hypatia of Alexandria (c. AD 360–415)
- A mathematician, astronomer, and philosopher, Hypatia was a scholar in Ancient Egypt during the Roman period. Her brilliance in science and philosophy made her a respected teacher and one of history’s first female scientists.
Mansa Musa (c. AD 1280–1337)
- As ruler of the Mali Empire, Mansa Musa’s wealth was unparalleled, but his legacy extends beyond riches. He built libraries, mosques, and universities, transforming Timbuktu into a center of education and culture.
Pharaoh Hatshepsut (c. 1507–1458 BC)
- One of Ancient Egypt’s most successful rulers, Hatshepsut expanded trade networks and commissioned stunning architectural projects, such as her mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahri.
Ibn Battuta (AD 1304–1369)
- A Moroccan explorer who traveled more extensively than Marco Polo, Ibn Battuta documented his journeys through Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe in a detailed travelogue that provides a vivid snapshot of the medieval world.
Queen Amanirenas (c. 40–10 BC)
- A fierce queen of Kush, Amanirenas led her people in a successful resistance against the Romans. Despite losing an eye in battle, she defended her kingdom’s independence and left a legacy of courage.
Makeda, Queen of Sheba (c. 10th Century BC)
- Mentioned in the Bible, Makeda ruled over a wealthy and powerful kingdom in Ethiopia. Her famous visit to King Solomon symbolizes wisdom and cultural exchange.
Why This Matters
These individuals represent just a fraction of the rich history of excellence that predates slavery. Their achievements span science, mathematics, exploration, architecture, and governance, proving that African and Black contributions to human civilization have always been significant.
Yet, many of us were never taught these stories. When history omits these narratives, it reinforces harmful stereotypes and denies generations the opportunity to celebrate their heritage. Black history is not a sidebar to world history—it is world history.
A Call to Action
This Black History Month, I encourage you to seek out the stories of Black innovators, leaders, and visionaries who shaped our world. Share their stories with your children, friends, and communities. Celebrate their legacies and recognize the contributions they made to the global story of humanity.
Because when we learn about figures like Mansa Musa, Imhotep, and Queen Amanirenas, we don’t just honor the past—we gain a fuller understanding of ourselves and our potential.
Black history didn’t begin with slavery, and it doesn’t end with oppression. It is a story of resilience, brilliance, and unshakable faith. Let’s honor it, celebrate it, and share it—because Black history is world history.
