Man history

The city of Man, located in the west of Côte d'Ivoire, is the historical centre of the region known as the "18 Mountains". Its history is closely interwoven with the culture of the local peoples and the development of trade routes in West Africa. Although the exact date of Man's founding is not documented, its emergence is linked to the settlement of the Dan people (also known as the Yacouba), who traditionally inhabit these lands. The settlement formed as a central point for surrounding villages, playing the role of an important social and commercial hub. Oral traditions suggest that the region around Man is the ancestral homeland for several related ethnic groups.

The city's development was driven by several key factors. Firstly, its geographic location in a picturesque mountainous area made Man a natural centre for surrounding agricultural communities, providing protection and resources for life. Secondly, the city was historically a vital market centre where trade routes converged, transporting goods such as kola nuts, and later — coffee and cocoa. Finally, over time, Man acquired the status of an administrative centre of the region, which contributed to its growth and infrastructure development.

The early history of Man is characterised by the rich culture of the Dan people, known for their art, particularly the creation of ritual masks and wooden sculptures. The economy was initially based on slash-and-burn agriculture, where rice was the main crop, as well as hunting. With the arrival of the colonial era and the development of commercial agriculture, export crops such as coffee and cocoa began to be actively cultivated in the city's vicinity, which strengthened its economic significance.

Key Dates in the History of Man

The history of Man is a reflection of the key stages of development of all Côte d'Ivoire, from ancient trade routes to modern events. The city, located in the mountainous heart of the country, has witnessed changing eras, colonial rule, and the struggle for peace.

• 11th–16th Centuries — The Dan and Malinke peoples settle in the "18 Mountains" region, laying the cultural and social foundations for the future settlement that would become an important trading post.
• 1893 — The territory of modern Côte d'Ivoire officially becomes a French colony, and the Man region is gradually integrated into the new administrative system.
• Early 20th Century — Man is established as an important colonial administrative post, which contributes to its planning and the beginning of infrastructure development.
• 1930s — Plantations of export crops, primarily coffee and cocoa, are actively created in the vicinity of the city, defining the region's economic specialisation for decades to come.
• 7 August 1960 — Côte d'Ivoire proclaims independence, and Man becomes the administrative centre of a department within the new republic, beginning its journey as an Ivorian city.
• 1970s–1980s — During the period of the "Ivorian Economic Miracle," the city experiences significant population growth and social infrastructure development thanks to stable revenues from agricultural exports.
• 1999 — The first military coup in the country's history marks the beginning of a long period of political instability that would affect all regions, including the west.
• November 2002 — During the outbreak of the civil war, the city of Man was seized by rebel groups, making it one of the conflict's hotspots in the west of the country.
• 2007 — The signing of the Ouagadougou Peace Agreement launches the process of gradual disarmament and the restoration of unified governance in the country, bringing hope for peace to the Man region as well.
• 2011 — The conclusion of the second military-political crisis and the beginning of an era of national reconciliation, allowing the city and region to return to peaceful development and economic recovery.

Stages of the City's Development

The development of Man, like many other cities in Côte d'Ivoire, has passed through several key stages that have defined its modern appearance and economic role. From a colonial post to a major regional centre, each period has left its mark on its history.

• Establishment as an Administrative Centre (Early 20th Century): During the colonial period, Man was established as an important administrative post. This led to the beginning of urban planning, the construction of the first roads and government buildings, laying the foundation for its future growth.
• Centre of Agrarian Economy (1930s – 1970s): The development of coffee and cocoa plantations in the city's vicinity turned Man into a key hub for the collection and primary processing of agricultural products. This specialisation became the basis of its economy for decades and facilitated an influx of labour.
• Growth during the "Ivorian Miracle" (1960s–1980s): After the country gained independence, during an era of rapid economic growth, Man experienced a significant increase in population and the development of social infrastructure. Schools, hospitals, and residential neighbourhoods were built in the city, strengthening its status as the capital of the western region.
• Development of the Transport Network: The creation of road infrastructure connecting Man with other regions of the country was crucial. Improved transport accessibility contributed not only to trade but also to the city's integration into the national economy.
• Formation of Tourism Potential (from the 1970s): Thanks to its unique mountain landscape, famous waterfalls, and the distinct culture of the Dan people, Man began to attract tourists. The construction of hotels, such as "Les Cascades" in 1969, was an important step in diversifying the local economy.
• Preservation of Cultural Heritage: Man remains a centre for the unique culture of the Dan (Yacouba) people, known for their art, especially ritual masks and sculptures. This is not only a cultural asset but also a significant factor attracting researchers and connoisseurs of African art to the region.
• Post-War Recovery and Modernisation (from 2011): After the end of the military-political crisis, a new stage of development began in the city, aimed at restoring infrastructure, attracting investment, and diversifying the economy with an emphasis on the private sector and modern agricultural technologies.

The architectural appearance of the city of Man represents an eclectic combination of traditional African building practices, French colonial heritage, and post-colonial modernism. Classical European styles, such as Gothic or Baroque, are not characteristic of this region, as the city developed along a different historical path. The urban planning of Man was largely determined by its status as an administrative centre and its natural landscape — the famous "18 Mountains".

Traditional and Colonial Development

Historically, the architecture of the region was represented by the traditional dwellings of the Dan and Guéré peoples. These were typically round or rectangular mud-brick houses with roofs made of straw or palm leaves, perfectly adapted to the local climate. With the arrival of the French in the late 19th century, a French colonial style began to form in Man. It is characterised by the use of new materials (brick, concrete, tiles, corrugated iron) and the construction of functional buildings: administrative offices, officials' residences, and trading houses. The central part of the city began to acquire a more orderly layout.

Post-Colonial Modernism and Modernity

After Côte d'Ivoire gained independence in 1960, and especially during the economic boom of the 1970s, buildings in the style of post-colonial modernism appeared in Man. This style emphasised functionality, simple geometric forms, and the use of reinforced concrete. A striking example of this era is the Hôtel Les Cascades, built in 1969. The modern development of the city is predominantly functional and chaotic, especially in the fast-growing residential neighbourhoods on the outskirts. The city continues to evolve, combining planned development in central districts with organically expanding residential zones fitted into the complex hilly terrain.

Notable Figures Associated with the City of Man

The city of Man and the surrounding Montagnes region have given Côte d'Ivoire and the world several notable personalities in the fields of sports, politics, and culture. Although not all of them achieved global fame, their contribution is significant to the history and modernity of the country.

• Sidiki Konaté: Politician — one of the key political figures representing Man on the national stage. He served as a deputy for the city, actively participating in political life and the development of the region.
• Cyril Domoraud: Footballer — a former professional footballer and defender. He was born in Man and became one of the well-known players of his generation, playing for the Côte d'Ivoire national team and various European clubs, including Inter Milan and Olympique de Marseille.
• Ambroise Gboho: Footballer — a professional footballer and forward born in Man. He built his career primarily in clubs in France and Belgium, becoming another example of sporting talent from this region.
• Roseline Layo: Singer — a popular Ivorian singer performing in the Coupé-Décalé and Zouglou genres. Born in Man, she has become one of the brightest stars on the modern music scene of Côte d'Ivoire, gaining recognition for her vocals and energetic performances.
• Yaya Diomandé: Writer — a contemporary Ivorian writer associated with the city of Man. His work contributes to the development of literature in the country and reflects the cultural realities of the region.