vii, 178 pp. "The heroic legends decribed here, re-create the events and annals of the kingdom of Segu and of the Bambara tribe that formed a series of important city-states along the Niger River during the 17th century. The deeds of kings, the exploits of warriors, the sorcery of magicians, and battles against invaders are among the subjects addressed. The stories, transmitted orally, were narrated by the djeli, traditional keepers of the history of ruling families of the kingdoms that once flourished in the Western Sudan. They speak of valour, honour, intrigues and rivalries between powerful chiefs; they also include some reactions to the colonial encounters." CONTENTS: Acknowledgments -- Introduction -- The dawning of Segu -- Ngolo Diara, who became a king of Segu --Bassadjalan Zambele and the heroes of Kala -- Sokufo Seriba, a djeli of Segu -- Da Djera and Da Monzon against Samaniana Bassi -- Da Monzon against Chiaro Mamari -- Sekuruna Toto's proposal to Da Monzon -- The epic of Rakaridjan Kone, a hero of Segu -- In praise of Malamini Sinsani -- Diuladjan Biabi, a Soninke hero of Kiban -- Tuba's last effort against Kiban -- Selective Glossary -- Selected Background Readings.
