On the Methodology of Chronology: The Igala Core Dating Progression

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Periodical article

Title:	On the Methodology of Chronology: The Igala Core Dating Progression
Author:	Sargent, R.A.
Year:	1984
Periodical:	History in Africa
Volume:	11
Pages:	269-289
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Nigeria
Subjects:	chronology history Igala polity Peoples of Africa (Ethnic Groups) History and Exploration
External link:	https://www.jstor.org/stable/3171637
Abstract:	Precolonial African historiography has been plagued by historical reconstructions which remain in the realm of legend because events are suspended in almost timeless relativity. However, by adopting the perspective that chronology distinguishes history from legend, the historian might provide a reasonably accurate relative dating progression through which the correlation and synchronization of regional data can be assessed. Development of this objective will eventually provide the basis of regional history, social history, and a realistic reappraisal of precolonial historiography. The present-discussion, therefore, endeavors to present a methodology of chronical development for a particular case study, and suggests means whereby a relative yet reliable dating progression might be determined. This analysis of Igala chronology demonstrates the potential for generation dating in the Nigerian middle belt utilizing a thirty-year genealogical generation for both royal and commoner genealogies in father to son succession patterns. Charts, notes.