Andrianampoinimerina the great icon of Madagascar’s history.
The history of Andrianampoinimerina is of interest to a wide audience, namely history and culture lovers, tourists, students and researchers. The knowledge of the history of Madagascar and Andrianampoinimerina is of great importance. This is to know the root of the nation, the historical importance of his reign, and to learn from his achievements.
First, know who Andrianampoinimerina is, his origin, his history.
Andrianampoinimerina born Imboasalama in 1745, an important historical figure in Madagascar, is the first king in Madagascar. King of the Kingdom of Imerina, in central Madagascar, from 1787 until his death in 1810, he marked the history of the country. His reign marked a turning point in the history of the nation, for the image of a centralized and organized state. A major figure in Malagasy history, he was recognised both nationally and internationally. He thus became the central figure in the country’s history.
Ambohidrabiby, in the centre of Madagascar, presents its region of origin. This place is one of the many small principalities of the Imerina region. Its legendary ancestor named Andriamanelo is said to have founded the kingdom in the 16th century.
Andrianampoinimerina’s education, almost accomplished in oral instruction, brought him culture and personality. Learning and dissemination of knowledge compliment his era. The creation of Malagasy writing, the translation of foreign texts into this language, thus labels his era. According to some historians, he was also initiated into the sciences and the arts.
Explore the importance of the reign of Andrianampoinimerina in the history of Madagascar. Discover his achievements and reforms to better understand.
Because of his achievements and his reign, Andrianampoinimerina occupies a very important place in the history of Madagascar. During his reign, several reforms contributed to unify and modernize the kingdom.
The conquest of the neighbouring principalities produces the unification of the Imerina. The modernization of the latter, constituting the basis of a prosperous and stable state, contributes to the fusion of Madagascar. The city of Antananarivo, today the capital of Madagascar, is one of his achievements. By building the palatial complex the « Rova », he configured the centre of royal power at the time.
Establishing a centralized and organized government, Andrianampoinimerina designed trade, agriculture, crafts, education and culture. The imposition of taxes on imported products led to the creation of markets in the main towns. Agriculture was promoted through new techniques, with seed distribution and irrigation systems to improve food production.
The creation of a fair judicial system and the establishment of laws to regulate relations between social classes characterise his skills. He also promoted education by founding schools and encouraging young people to learn the arts and sciences.
Malagasy resistance against European colonisation began in the time of Andrianampoinimerina. He tried to preserve the independence of his kingdom in the face of French and British invasion attempts. He established diplomatic relations with the United States and other powers in order to protect Madagascar against European imperialism.
Andrianampoinimerina a également été un grand architecte, qui a fait construire de nombreux monuments et infrastructures. Il a encouragé la construction de routes, de ponts, de palais, de temples et d’autres bâtiments publics, qui témoignent de sa vision ambitieuse pour son royaume.
