Obi of Onitsha Samuel Okosi I, the first Christian Obi of Onitsha. 1899

A Deep Dive into Onitsha's Pre-Colonial Past

"The King in Every Man" by Richard N. Henderson is a weighty tome (clocking in at 600 pages) offering a rich exploration of the Igbo people of Onitsha, Nigeria. The book focuses particularly on their society and culture in the centuries leading up to colonialism.

While currently out of print, this book is considered a valuable resource for understanding Igbo history and culture. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect:

• Focus: Ethno-historical reconstruction of Onitsha society before European arrival.
• Content: Delves into social structures, political systems, religious beliefs, and cultural practices of the Onitsha people.
• Significance: Provides insights into a way of life largely lost to the colonial era, offering a window into Igbo traditions and philosophies.
• Source Reliability: The book's age (published in 2000) might necessitate consulting more recent scholarship for a fully comprehensive understanding.
• Availability: Currently out of print, finding a physical copy may require searching online marketplaces or used bookstores.

Who Should Read This Book?

• Anyone interested in Igbo history and culture, particularly the Onitsha people.
• Scholars researching pre-colonial African societies.
• Individuals with ancestral ties to Onitsha.

Igbo Archives Recommendation:

If the hefty length and potential difficulty in acquiring a copy don't deter you, "The King in Every Man" is a valuable resource for those with a deep interest in Onitsha's pre-colonial past. However, due to availability issues, it might be best suited for researchers or those willing to put in the extra effort to find a copy.

Title: Groundwork of the History and Culture of Onitsha

Author: S. I Bosah

Publication Date: January 1, 1977

Format: Paperback

Pages: 224

Language: English

Item Weight: 1.74 pounds

ASIN: B0000E8PSC

Publisher: s.n

Overview

“Groundwork of the History and Culture of Onitsha” by S. I Bosah offers a thorough examination of the history and culture of Onitsha, a key cultural center in Nigeria. The author provides a detailed account of the city’s traditions, social structures, and cultural evolution.

Content Analysis

S. I Bosah’s book is a dedicated study of Onitsha’s heritage. It documents the city’s historical events and cultural development, giving readers a clear understanding of the influences that have shaped Onitsha.

Cultural Significance

The work is an important resource for those interested in Nigerian culture, especially that of the Igbo people. It captures the city’s identity from its early days to its current status as a thriving city.

Academic Value

This detailed study is a valuable asset for academic libraries and is beneficial for scholars, students, and researchers in African studies, anthropology, and history.

Reader Engagement

Bosah’s clear writing style and the inclusion of images make the book accessible and engaging for a wide audience.

Strengths and Considerations

Strengths:

• Extensive Coverage: The book provides a broad overview of Onitsha’s history and culture.
• Clear Narrative: Bosah’s writing engages readers with the subject matter.
• Educational Value: It serves as a useful resource for understanding Igbo culture.

Considerations:

• Specific Audience: The book is likely to interest those studying Nigerian or Igbo culture.
• Availability: The paperback format may be difficult for some international readers to acquire.

Final Thoughts

“Groundwork of the History and Culture of Onitsha” is a significant work that contributes to the understanding of Nigerian cultural history. S. I Bosah’s book is essential for anyone seeking to learn about the historical and cultural context of Onitsha and the Igbo people. It educates and enhances the reader’s knowledge of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.