Synopsis: Today on Riot Radio, we’re discussing the incredible story of Queen Nzinga and her 40-year war against Portugal. Nzingha Mbande was Queen of the Ambundu Kingdoms of Ndongo and Matamba, located in present-day northern Angola. The Kingdom of Ndongo, formerly known as Angola or Dongo, was an early-modern African state. Nzinga ruled during a period of rapid growth in the African slave trade and encroachment of the Portuguese Empire into South West Africa.
Nzinga’s father, the Ngola, would lavish attention upon her. She was trained as a warrior to fight alongside her father, “displaying considerable aptitude with a battle-ax, the traditional weapon of Ndongan warriors.”
Above is an image of Queen Nzinga sitting on the backs of her council while negotiating with the Portuguese nobles. She participated in many official duties alongside her father, including legal councils, war councils, and important rituals.
Also, in this episode, we cover a bit of history on Ancient Kemet and African culture before European colonialism. So tune in and grab some popcorn wit’ us!
