Are Latosisa: A Psychoanalysis of a Historical Character

This is basically an exposition on historical psychology with emphasis on African history. The 19th century was a turbulent time in Ibadan and it produced warriors like Aare Latosisa. Are Latosisa is a very important character in the history of Yoruba land. His reign was eventful and it finally brought about the era of British Colonialism that was preceded by Ibadan imperialism, conflict and the 16 year civil war in Yoruba land. This is a psycho-analysis of his character and it gives an insight into his motives and state of mind. Basically the psycho-historical exploration of the African society is rare. The events of Yoruba land in the 19th century were shaped by inividuals with different psychological dispositions and their state of mind determined the fate of social groups such as cities, villages, empires and ethnic groups. Aare Latosisa was a typical example of an individual with NPD (Narcistic Personality Disorder). He caused a lot of wars in Yoruba land with his braggadocio, pride and impatience. This study is a psycho-historical exploration of written records in order to understand the human persona and enigma called Aare Latosisa. The political, social and cultural events of the 19th century in Yoruba Land created militaristic political figures such as Aare Latosisa. It is important to note that there is a direct relationship between the profession of an individual and his psychological disposition towards life.