The Scent of Empires: East Africa's Resins and the Making of a Global History

Synopsis

For over a thousand years, the fragrant resins of East Africa have been more than just valuable commodities; they have been silent architects of history. From the sun-baked plains yielding frankincense and myrrh to the humid coastlines offering precious copal, these ancient forest products have intricately woven East Africa into the fabric of global trade. This book embarks on a captivating journey to uncover the untold story of these resins, revealing how they have influenced the region's destiny from its earliest connections to the wider world through periods of colonial upheaval and industrial change. 'The Scent of Empires' argues that by examining these remarkable natural resources, we gain a unique lens through which to understand East Africa's past and envision its future. Discover how the aromatic legacy of resins not only shaped historical trade routes and economies but also holds the key to a modern, sustainable, and bio-based future for the region. This exploration is perfect for readers aged 13 and above who are curious about how the natural world intersects with history, economics, and innovation.