Centers of Ancient Civilization – SS1 Nigerian History Lesson Note (First Term)

Igbo-Ukwu and Nok are two ancient civilisations in present-day Nigeria. Igbo-Ukwu is known for its sophisticated metalworking and Nok for its highly stylised sculptures. Archaeologists have studied both for many years. This note describes the features, economic life and art of each civilisation.

Behavioural objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. State the main features of the Igbo-Ukwu civilisation.
2. State the main features of the Nok civilisation.
3. Describe the economic activities of the two civilisations.
4. Describe the artistic works of Nok and Igbo-Ukwu.

What are the features of the Igbo-Ukwu civilisation?

1. The Igbo-Ukwu civilisation is one of the most ancient and developed civilisations in Africa.
2. It is characterised by its high level of development in art, technology, science and architecture.
3. Its main feature is its sophisticated metalworking technology.
4. It was first identified by archaeologists in the early 20th century, and since then it has been the subject of much research.

What was the economic life of Igbo-Ukwu?

The Igbo-Ukwu civilisation was highly developed economically. This is shown by its sophisticated metalworking technology. The city of Igbo-Ukwu was an important centre of trade and commerce for this civilisation.

What are the features of the Nok civilisation?

1. The Nok civilisation is another ancient and developed civilisation of Africa.
2. It is characterised by its highly stylised art, which is unique among African cultures.
3. It was first identified by archaeologists in the early 20th century, and since then it has been the subject of much research.
4. The most famous site of this civilisation is Nok, in present-day Kaduna State, Nigeria.

What was the economic life of Nok?

The Nok civilisation was also developed economically. Nok was an important centre of trade and commerce for this civilisation.

What are the artistic works of Nok and Igbo-Ukwu?

Both the Nok and Igbo-Ukwu civilisations were highly developed artistically. The most famous examples of their art are the sculptures found at sites associated with them: terracotta at Nok and bronze at Igbo-Ukwu. These sculptures are characterised by their realistic depictions of humans and animals and their use of geometric patterns.

Other examples of art from these civilisations include pottery, jewellery and metalwork.

There is evidence that the Igbo-Ukwu civilisation had trade and political relationships with other groups in Africa.

How can students learn more about these civilisations?

An excursion to a museum or archaeological site associated with the Igbo-Ukwu or Nok civilisations is a good way to learn more about these ancient cultures. Such an outing also gives students the chance to see some of the art and artefacts found at these sites.

Evaluation

1. State two features of the Igbo-Ukwu civilisation.
2. State two features of the Nok civilisation.
3. Where is the most famous site of the Nok civilisation?
4. Name three examples of art from these civilisations.

Assignment

1. Describe the economic life of the Igbo-Ukwu civilisation.
2. Describe the artistic works of the Nok and Igbo-Ukwu civilisations.