A bold, revelatory history of Nigeria before the British arrived - written by one of the most trusted voices in African historical scholarship.
We know what the British did to Nigeria. But what do we know about Nigeria before the British came?
'Siollun's books are gripping' - Financial Times
'An essential book you’ll want to re-read many times – there is no more eloquent and informed guide than Max Siollun' - Sathnam Sanghera, author of Empireland
'This is the indispensable book for anyone interested in the pre-colonial history of what now constitutes Nigeria. Incredibly necessary, magnificently done…'- Remi Adekoya, author of It's Not About Whiteness, It's About Wealth
In this groundbreaking work, acclaimed British-Nigerian historian Max Siollun peels back the layers of colonial myth to unveil a Nigeria rich in complexity, drama, and achievement long before the British arrived to colonise it.
Far from being part of a "dark continent," pre-colonial Nigeria had bustling cities, democratic institutions, intellectual hubs, powerful empires, and unforgettable characters. Offering vivid storytelling, The Forgotten Era:
• Reframes Nigerian history on its own terms - not through a European lens
• Explores democratic councils, sophisticated legal systems, and the complex governance of kingdoms
• Is a vital read for young Nigerians and African descendants worldwide seeking a deeper connection to their heritage beyond colonisation
• Makes a perfect Companion to Empireland and Black and British: If you’ve read David Olusoga or Sathnam Sanghera, this is the next book for you
Rediscover the legacy. Reclaim the pride.
The Forgotten Era isn’t just a history book - it’s a homecoming.
Max Siollun is a historian and author. He has written four acclaimed books on Nigeria’s history, including What Britain Did to Nigeria: A Short History of Conquest and Rule, which was shortlisted in BBC History Magazine’s 2021 Books of the Year. He has written for the New York Times, Guardian, Independent and Foreign Policy.