Did Yorubas Originate from Ancient Kemet (Egypt)?The notion that the Yorubas originated from Ancient Kemet (Egypt) has sparked intense debate among historians and scholars. According to Samuel Johnson's book "The History of the Yorubas from the Earliest Times to the Beginning of the British Protectorate" (1921), there is strong evidence to suggest that the Yorubas migrated from the East, with habits, manners, customs, and cultural aspects supporting this theory.Johnson argues that the Yorubas emigrated from Upper Egypt to Ife, supported by the existence of sculptures known as the "Ife Marbles," which exhibit Egyptian characteristics. Linguistic similarities between Yoruba and ancient Egyptian languages provide further evidence of a connection between the two peoples.Examples of linguistic similarities include:- Wu (Rise) - Wu (Rise)- Ere (Python) - Ere (Python)- Horise (a great god) - Orise (a great god)- Ged (to chant) - Igede/Ogede (chant)- Sueq (a fool) - Suegbe (a fool)- Ta (sell) - Ta (sell or offer)- Enru (fear) - Eru (fear)- Kun or gun (brave) - Ekun (brave)- Ma or mi (to breathe) - Mi (to breathe)- Khu (to kill) - Ku (die)- Hika (evil) - Ika (evil)- Edjo (cobra) - Ejo (snakes)- Horiwo (head) - Oriwo (head)- AK (male) - Ako (male)- Mu (water) - Mu (drink water)- Do (river) - Odo (river)- Aru (mouth) - Arun (mouth) (Ilaje dialect)- Ash (invocation) - Ase (invocation)- Po (many) - Po (many/cheap)- Budo (dwelling place) - Bu do (dwelling place)These linguistic similarities support the notion that Yoruba words bear similarities to ancient Egyptian words, providing further evidence of historical and cultural connections between the Yoruba people and ancient Egypt.Artistic Legacies: A Comparative Study of Yoruba and Ancient Egyptian CreativityThe Yoruba people are renowned for their rich artistic heritage, which encompasses various forms of visual and performing arts. Their artistic creativity is deeply rooted in their cultural and spiritual beliefs, serving as a means of expression, communication, and preservation of their history and traditions.When comparing the artistic standards of the Yoruba with ancient Egypt, both civilizations demonstrate remarkable achievements in the field of art. One notable aspect of Yoruba artistic creativity is their mastery of sculpting and carving. The Yoruba are renowned for their intricate woodcarvings, stone sculptures, and bronze castings.Similarly, ancient Egypt holds a significant place in the history of art, particularly for its monumental sculptures and elaborate tomb paintings. Egyptian art emphasized formalism and idealized representations, often portraying pharaohs, gods, and goddesses.In terms of artistic standards, both the Yoruba and ancient Egyptians demonstrate a high level of technical expertise and a sophisticated understanding of aesthetics. Both civilizations valued the representation of the human form, striving for accuracy and symbolism in their artistic creations.While there are similarities in artistic standards, it is essential to note some distinctive characteristics of Yoruba art. The Yoruba place great importance on the spiritual and ritual significance of their artworks. Sculptures and masks are often used in religious ceremonies and festivals to connect with deities and ancestors.Additionally, Yoruba art is renowned for its use of vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and symbolism, which reflect the cosmology and mythology of the Yoruba worldview.The artistic heritage of both the Yoruba and ancient Egyptians continues to captivate and inspire people around the world, showcasing the enduring power of human creativity.