Madagascar

This country is currently the Republic of Madagascar, although in former times it was known as the Malagasy Republic. It is believed the island was first inhabited by Bantu-speaking settlers crossing from present day Mozambique, although there is some evidence to suggest previous inhabitants. Arabs and other East Africans first made contact with the native tribes during the 7th century, when trading posts were first established along the island's coasts. Several chiefdoms were established during the Middle Ages, each laying claims to control over large areas of the island, and growing in wealth and power proportionate to the amount of trade they were able to engage in. These powerful regional monarchs became known as the Maroserana. Portuguese explorers first made contact with the island in 1500, but they were never successful in establishing a trading colony. From around 1774 to 1824, however, Madagascar was a favorite haunt for pirates, who raided along the entire African east coast.

King Radama I, son of the Merina King Andrianampoinimerina, is credited with expanding his rule over neighboring principalities and bringing the entire nation under one monarch.