The Yoruba Caravan System of the Nineteenth Century

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Periodical article

Title:	The Yoruba Caravan System of the Nineteenth Century
Author:	Falola, Toyin
Year:	1991
Periodical:	International Journal of African Historical Studies
Volume:	24
Issue:	1
Pages:	111-132
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Nigeria
Subjects:	Yoruba long-distance trade road transport History and Exploration Peoples of Africa (Ethnic Groups) Economics and Trade
External link:	https://www.jstor.org/stable/220095
Abstract:	Trade was extensive in Yorubaland (Nigeria) during the 19th century. It depended largely on the activities of 'alajapa' (itinerant traders) who banded together in caravans that moved from one town to another or to a target market. By relying on firsthand accounts, complemented with oral data collected between 1977 and 1987, this article examines the dominant features and aspects of the Yoruba caravan system. Contrary to other caravan systems, Yoruba caravans did not rely on pack animals, traders were not necessarily Muslim, and caravans were not dominated by traders from a particular group or town. Yoruba caravans were usually dominated by women traders. The article describes the objectives and advantages of caravan organization, the preparations for a journey, caravan life during the journey, and the dissolution of a caravan. Notes, ref.