Page:A Chapter on Slavery.djvu/51

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SLAVERY. IN AFRICA.
37

war between Kajaaga and Kasson was occasioned by the detention of a fugitive slave 3 — that between Bambarra and Kaarta by the loss of a few cattle. Other cases of the same nature perpetually occur, in which the folly or mad ambition of their princes, and the zeal of their religious enthusiasts, give full employment ‘ to the scythe of desolation.

"The wars of Africa are of two kinds, which are distinguished by different appellations. That species which bears the greatest resemblance to our European contests, is denominated Killi, a word signifying ‘to call out,' because such wars are openly avowed and previously declared. Wars of this description in Africa commonly terminate, however, in the course of a single campaign. A battle is fought — the vanquished seldom think of rallying again — the whole inhabitants become panic-struck — and the conquerors have only to bind the slaves, and carry off their plunder and their victims. Such of the prisoners as through age or infirmity are unable to endure fatigue, or are found unfit for sale, are considered as useless, and, I have no doubt, are frequently put to death. The same fate commonly awaits a chief, or any other person who has taken a very distinguished part in the war.

"The other species of African warfare is distinguished by the appellation of Tegria (plundering or stealing). It arises from a sort of hereditary feud, which the inhabitants of one nation or district bear towards another. No immediate cause of hostility is assigned, or notice of attack given, but the inhabitants of each watch every opportunity to plunder and distress the objects of their animosity by predatory excursions.