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On the Methodology of Chronology: The Igala Core Dating Progression
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 13 May 2014
Extract
Precolonial African historiography has been plagued by historical reconstructions which remain in the realm of legend because events are suspended in almost timeless relativity. This kind of reconstruction seems to erect barriers which hinder or prevent synchronization with neighboring societies and regional events. Isolated from comparative material by the lack of even a relative chronology, coupled with the difficulty of incorporating undated evidence into the mainstream of regional historiography, suggests that the basis of history has not been provided. However, if we adopt the perspective that chronology distinguishes history from legend, the onus falls directly on every historian to 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 following discussion, therefore, endeavors to present a methodology of chronological development for a particular case study, and suggests means whereby a relative yet reliable dating progression might be determined.
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References
Notes
1. The Igala core chronology has been based upon the Idah regnal list. Refer to Chart I.
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50. The majority of these researchers were involved in the Benue Valley History Project of 1974 and 1976, which was generously funded by the Canada Council. The team concept for precolonial research in the Benue Valley facilitated the development of the regional concept for Benue Valley history, and assisted in the correlation of intersocietal synchronistic data. The contributions from many of these and other historicans can be found in the Benue Valley Collection either at the Centre for African Studies, Dalhousie University, or in the Killam Library, Special Collections, Dalhousie University.