On June 12, 2005, UNESCO officially inscribed the Timbuktu Manuscripts of Mali into the Memory of the World Register. These ancient documents, dating from the 13th to 17th centuries, include works on astronomy, medicine, mathematics, Islamic law, and African history. Their inclusion recognized West Africa’s pre-colonial intellectual achievements, challenging stereotypes of Africa as ahistorical or primitive. The manuscripts were housed in private family libraries and mosques and were increasingly threatened by war and environmental degradation. The international recognition on June 12 helped rally support for preservation and digital archiving. It affirmed Africa’s legacy as a cradle of knowledge and scholarship.
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