The document discusses the role of African kings in the slave trade. It notes that while African kings were involved in slavery, they were highly influenced by the supply of guns from Europeans, which African nations had little ability to resist. It provides details on the scale of the slave trade, with 12 million Africans sold in under 400 years, and 20% dying during the Middle Passage. The document concludes by questioning a philosopher's characterization of Africa as having no historical significance.