Introduction
Imperial cartography was set in motion as the Roman Empire expanded its influence across Europe and North Africa during antiquity. This article delves into the complex relationship between the Roman Empire, North Africa, and various regions in ancient Europe, examining genetic and linguistic evidence that challenges traditional narratives.
Imperial Cartography and the Roman Province of Europa
Ancient Europe, known as Europa, was a Roman province that later became part of a region called the Diocese of Thrace, spanning what is now European Turkey. This area was home to the Thracians, a predominantly African-descended population.[1] Genetic evidence, particularly the high prevalence of the E1b1b haplogroup, supports this claim.[2] Furthermore, Europa is also the name of a Phoenician princess, adding another layer to its historical significance.
Ancient Africa and Its Influence in Europe
Ancient Africa was much larger than it is today, extending its influence even to Western Europe. This region was initially settled by Africans who often ruled over it, as evidenced by the reign of King Gormundus in Ireland and England. He is commemorated in Ireland through 'Gormunds Gate' in Dublin, with his reign recorded in official annals.[3]
Historical Figures and Evidence
Africa is also the name of an ancient Irish princess and high priestess, suggesting a deep historical connection between ancient Ireland and Africa. The term "Africa" is still used to name girls in Ireland, further emphasizing this cultural link.[4] It's important to note that Ireland and Scotland were among the last strongholds of African influence in Europe. There is irrefutable pictorial and documented evidence of black Scots and Irish among the forced or voluntary migrants to America and the Caribbean Islands.[5]
Linguistic Evidence: Latin as a Proto-Bantu Language
The Latin language, long believed to be primarily Indo-European, has been proven to be a proto-Bantu language spoken by the earliest inhabitants of Latium. This discovery was made by scholars from South Africa, Angola, and New Zealand.[6] The racist assertion that "Africa begins in Rome or at the outskirts of Rome" hints at the true origins of the ancient Romans, who were full or partial descendants of Black Africans and the Mauretanii.
.Shared Lexicon and Cultural Impact
Latin, often considered an Indo-European language, shares a surprising number of words with Bantu languages, suggesting a more complex linguistic history than previously thought. There are hundreds of Latin words that are identical or very similar to Bantu words with the same meaning. Moreover, a shared lexicon of Latin words with their Bantu equivalents has been developed.[7]
Geopolitical Implications
The ancient world witnessed the existence of Bantu language regions in different parts of the known world. For instance, Bantu land, known as Azania or the Land of the Zanj, was present in both ancient Greece and Eastern and Southern Africa. The Western Indian Ocean was also known as the Sea of Zanj, or the Azanian Sea.[8]
Conclusion
The relationship between the Roman Empire and North Africa, as well as the broader European context, is much more complex than traditionally portrayed. Genetic, linguistic, and historical evidence suggest a deep and intricate connection between ancient Africa and these regions. By reassessing these relationships, we can gain a more nuanced understanding of the ancient world and its impact on contemporary society.