By the end of the 12th century, farming villages began to unite against the pastoralists and create new kingdoms. As described in the epic of Sundiata, these kingdoms were based on walled towns headed by a royal family. They were surrounded by supporting villages whose leaders provided taxes to the king in the form of gifts and service, in exchange for protection, justice, and access to the king's religious powers. In this way, kings are restrained from becoming despots, and every individual in society is represented by an elder family member in the councils of power. Griots are professional historians who serve a ruler in much the same way that modern rulers are served by written constitutions, legal staff, and archival staffs.
Griots recall what earlier leaders have done to advise current leaders on how to handle problems.
Griots also serve as orators who relay the words of the kings to the rest of the population, much as ancestors serve as intermediaries between Faro and living humans. Since wider action requires the communication of the noble's will, the griot plays a crucial role in motivating an entire population to coordinated effort. Return to the top of the page .