Watch 123Movies. A survey of early African civilizations. Imaginative maps by Philip Stapp set the scene for live photography of the ancient kingdoms of Kush, Axum, Ghana, Mali, Songhai and the dramatic stone ruins of Zimbabwe. The exciting art of Benin and Ashanti allow the viewer to compare ancient Africa with life today. Archaeologist at work help raise questions about who the ancient Africans were and how they lived. Consultant, Richard Ford, Professor of African History, Clark University.