Samba Yaye’s Tata: Archaeology and History of an Endogenous Fortification in Eastern Senegal

Abstract

Abstract In West Africa, research has brought to light the remains of endogenous fortifications, some of which are called tata, built by West African communities during the last centuries of our era. Despite their importance, tata are generally examined only from a historical perspective or approached as components of global facts rather than as an object of study by themselves. As a result, little is known about the structures themselves and their roles in local history. This paper is an archaeological and historical study of a tata in Senegal. We first have a brief knowledge review of tata in the area where the fortifications are known under this name. Then, we present the archaeological and historical study of the tata of Samba Yaye. Finally, we discuss the causes and some technical aspects of the construction of the Samba Yaye tata, while integrating this site into the chrono-cultural sequence of the region.