Ancient Kings and Queens Part 1: The Foundations of Greatness
Discover the Trailblazers of African Royalty
In this foundational class, we journey back to the earliest known African empires and rulers who set the stage for a legacy of power, innovation, and leadership. Learn about the first female Pharaoh Hatshepsut, a visionary ruler of Kemet; her brother Thutmose III, one of the greatest military leaders in history; and the transformative reign of Pharaoh Akhenaten and Queen Nefertiti, who revolutionized religious belief systems and beautified Egypt. Explore the legacy of King Tut, who ruled as a boy Pharaoh, and Queen Makeda of Sheba, whose wisdom and diplomacy influenced kingdoms far beyond Africa. End with the inspiring story of Pharaoh Taharqa, who earned the title “Savior of the Jews” through his courage and leadership.
Key Takeaways:
Meet the trailblazing rulers who reshaped their empires.
Uncover the transformative leadership qualities of Africaโs most renowned Pharaohs.
Learn how ancient African rulers influenced world history and culture.
Ancient Kings and Queens Part 2: Building Empires and Enduring Legacies
The Untold Stories of Africaโs Greatest Kingdoms
In this class, we continue with the incredible narratives of African rulers who expanded territories and left their indelible marks on history. From Tenkamenin, King of Ghana, who built a society without poverty and prioritized justice for his people, to Sundiata, the Lion King, whose story inspired Disney’s classic film. Discover the wealth of Mansa Musa, the richest man in history, and the empire-building strategies of Sunni Ali Ber, who ruled Songhai with wisdom and strength. End with Affonso I of Kongo, a king who modernized his empire with cement homes and education while resisting the rise of the transatlantic slave trade.
Key Takeaways:
See how African rulers built thriving empires through trade, justice, and innovation.
Explore their strategies for leadership, governance, and resistance to oppression.
Discover lessons from history that resonate in todayโs world.
Ancient Kings and Queens Part 3: The Power of Leadership and Courage
Unyielding Leaders Who Defied the Odds
This class introduces the unyielding rulers who led with courage and determination against immense challenges. Learn about Queen Amina of Zaria, a warrior queen who commanded 20,000 men and built protective walls around her kingdom. Meet Shamba Bolongongo, the African King of Peace, whose governance included democratic systems centuries ahead of their time. Study the wisdom and diplomacy of Osei Tutu, founder of the Ashanti Kingdom, and his golden stool of unity. Finally, explore the ingenuity of Shaka Zulu, whose revolutionary battle tactics secured the Zulu Kingdomโs prominence.
Key Takeaways:
Understand the courage and ingenuity of African rulers who redefined leadership.
Learn how diplomacy, strategy, and vision shaped their kingdoms.
Apply lessons of resilience and determination to modern challenges.
Ancient Kings and Queens Part 4: Resistance and Diplomacy
Standing Tall in the Face of Colonialism
In this class, we highlight the African leaders who resisted colonization and protected their kingdoms from European invasion. Meet King Ja Ja of Opobo, who rose from enslavement to become a prosperous trader and leader of his people. Discover Moshoeshoe of Basutoland, who united his people through diplomacy and successfully defended his land. Explore the bravery of Yaa Asantawa, who led an army to protect the sacred Golden Stool, and the strength of Menelek II of Ethiopia, who kept his kingdom independent from colonization. Learn about Khama III, a Christian king who outmaneuvered colonial forces to protect his land and people.
Key Takeaways:
Explore the strategies used by African rulers to resist European domination.
Witness the bravery of leaders who fought for their peopleโs freedom and dignity.
Learn the importance of unity, resilience, and foresight in leadership.
Ancient Kings and Queens Part 5: Reflection and Knowledge Retention
Review, Reflect, and Apply the Lessons of Greatness
In this final class, we consolidate the stories, lessons, and strategies from the previous sessions. This interactive review includes key quiz questions to reinforce learning and prompts for reflection on how these historical narratives can inspire personal growth, community leadership, and a better understanding of the past.
Key Takeaways:
Test your knowledge and solidify your understanding of the series.
Reflect on how these stories connect to modern challenges and opportunities.
Identify practical ways to apply the lessons of leadership, justice, and empowerment in your life.
Why This Series Matters
This adult edition of Ancient Kings, Queens, and Empires goes beyond historyโitโs a call to reconnect with the strength, resilience, and brilliance of our ancestors. These stories are more than just lessons from the past; theyโre blueprints for a future of empowerment, pride, and action.
By exploring this series, youโll not only gain a deeper understanding of African history but also uncover timeless principles of leadership, resilience, and community-building that are as relevant today as they were centuries ago.
Add these transformative classes to your journey today and uncover the truths that empower you!