What was west African taxing like?

Answer 1

In West Africa, taxation historically varied by region and governance systems, often reflecting the economic activities and social structures of the time. During the pre-colonial period, kingdoms like Mali and Songhai imposed taxes on trade, agriculture, and livestock, facilitating wealth accumulation and state power. Colonial regimes later introduced more formalized tax systems, often targeting local populations to fund colonial administrations, which sometimes led to resistance and unrest. Overall, taxation in West Africa has been a significant tool for political authority and economic management throughout its history.