The Amazigh granaries, known as Igudar. (Instagram/ancient.scientist)
New Delhi: The Amazigh granaries, known as Igudar, are widely regarded by researchers as one of the earliest examples of banking systems in human history. These ancient structures, primarily found in the southern regions of Morocco around the city of Agadir, played a vital role in the economic and social life of the Amazigh people.
These multifunctional granaries were not only used for storing agricultural staples like barley and wheat but also housed legal documents and valuables such as jewelry. The level of organization within these granaries was remarkable for the time. The Igudar were governed by written guidelines, such as the famous Agadir Oujarit tablet, penned in 1492, which is considered the oldest known to researchers. This document outlined the management of the granaries, ensuring that their operation remained efficient and fair.
At the helm of each Igudar was a secretary, known as the Lamine, responsible for overseeing daily operations. Supporting the Lamine was a committee known as the Inflas, made up of ten representatives from various tribes, ensuring that the system remained equitable and well-managed.
Beyond just a storage system, the Igudar served a variety of roles. They acted as food warehouses, water reservoirs, housing for keepers, and even as mosques and lodges. During periods of crisis such as war, drought, famine, or epidemics, these granaries doubled as shelters, offering refuge to both people and livestock. The Igudar system demonstrates an advanced form of communal resource management, highlighting the ingenuity of the Amazigh people.
The Amazigh, often referred to as Berbers, are an indigenous group native to North Africa, particularly present in countries like Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Mali, and Niger.
The Amazigh people are believed to have inhabited North Africa for over 4,000 years, with their origins tracing back to the prehistoric era. They played a prominent role in shaping the region’s ancient civilizations. The Amazigh were known to be highly skilled in agriculture, trade, and warfare. Throughout history, the Amazigh people resisted numerous attempts at domination, including Roman, Arab, and French colonization. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, as European powers sought to expand their empires in Africa, the Amazigh mounted resistance against French and Spanish colonizers.
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