View source for Wakanda

{{short description|Fictional country from Marvel Comics}}
{{about|the fictional country||}}
{{Infobox fictional location
| name = Wakanda
| image =
| image_size =
| caption = Flag of Wakanda
| first = ''[[Fantastic Four (comic book)|Fantastic Four]]'' #52<br>(July 1966)
| creator = [[Stan Lee]]<br>[[Jack Kirby]]
| genre =
| type = Country
| located_in = [[Central Africa]]
| ruler = [[Black Panther (character)|Black Panther]]
| locations = Birnin Zana (Golden City)<br>The Vibranium Mound<br>Jabari village
| ethnic_group = Wakandan
| races = [[Demographics of Africa|Human]]
| characters = T'Challa
| population = 6,000,000
| ethnic_groups = Panther Tribe, Jabari Tribe, Hyena Clan
| people = [[Fantastic Force|Vibraxas]]<br>[[Storm (Marvel Comics)|Storm]]<br>[[Gentle (comics)|Gentle]]
| blank_label = [[:Category:Comics publishing companies|Publisher]]
| blank_data = [[Marvel Comics]]
| blank_label1 = Demonym
| blank_data1 = Wakandan
| blank_label2 = Government
| blank_data2 = [[Constitutional monarchy]]
| blank_label3 = Currency
| blank_data3 = Wakandan Dollar
| blank_label4 = Language(s)
| blank_data4 = Wakandan<br>[[Yoruba language|Yoruba]]<br>[[Hausa language|Hausa]]<br>[[Lingala language|Lingala]]<br>[[Xhosa language|Xhosa]]<br>[[English Language|English]]<ref name="marvelatlas2"/>
}}
'''Wakanda''' ({{IPAc-en|w|ə|ˈ|k|ɑː|n|d|ə|,_|-|ˈ|k|æ|n|-}}), officially the '''Kingdom of Wakanda''', is a fictional country appearing in [[American comic book]]s published by [[Marvel Comics]]. Created by [[Stan Lee]] and [[Jack Kirby]], the country first appeared in ''[[Fantastic Four (comic book)|Fantastic Four]]'' #52 (July 1966).<ref>{{cite web |last=Cronin |first=Brian |date=September 19, 2010 |title=A Year of Cool Comics – Day 262 |url=https://www.cbr.com/a-year-of-cool-comics-day-262/ |access-date=October 23, 2021 |publisher=[[Comic Book Resources]]}}</ref> Wakanda is located in [[sub-Saharan Africa]] and has been depicted as being in [[East Africa]].<ref>{{cite news |author=GEORGE GENE GUSTINES |date=July 22, 2016 |title=Marvel's World of Wakanda Will Spotlight Women, on the Page and Behind It |newspaper=NYT |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2016/07/23/books/black-panther-marvel-comics-roxane-gay-ta-nehisi-coates-wakanda.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230414131346/https://www.nytimes.com/2016/07/23/books/black-panther-marvel-comics-roxane-gay-ta-nehisi-coates-wakanda.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=2023-04-14 |access-date=July 29, 2024}}</ref> It is home to the superhero [[Black Panther (character)|Black Panther]].
Wakanda has appeared in comics and various media adaptations, such as in the [[Marvel Cinematic Universe]], where it is depicted as the most technologically advanced nation on Earth.
==Location==
[[File:Lake Turkana  vicinity.jpg|thumb|In the MCU, Wakanda is located just north of [[Lake Turkana]], at a point bordering [[Kenya]], [[Ethiopia]], [[Uganda]] and [[South Sudan]].]]
Some sources place Wakanda just north of [[Tanzania]] and exactly at [[Rwanda]],<ref>''Fantastic Four'' vol. 3 #21</ref> while others{{--}}such as ''Marvel Atlas'' #2<ref name="marvelatlas2">{{cite comic | Writer = Michael Hoskin, [[Anthony Flamini]], Eric J. Moreels & Stuart Vandal | Story =  | Title = Marvel Atlas | Issue = 2 | Date = May 2008 | Publisher = [[Marvel Comics]] | }}</ref>{{--}}show it at the north end of [[Lake Turkana]], in between [[South Sudan]], [[Uganda]], [[Kenya]]  and [[Ethiopia]] (and surrounded by fictional countries like Azania, Canaan, and Narobia).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://origins.osu.edu/connecting-history/searching-Wakanda-african-roots-black-panther-story |title=Searching for Wakanda: The African Roots of the Black Panther Story |date=15 February 2018 |access-date=2018-09-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180922211715/http://origins.osu.edu/connecting-history/searching-Wakanda-african-roots-black-panther-story |archive-date=2018-09-22 |url-status=live }}</ref>
Director [[Ryan Coogler]] stated that his depiction of Wakanda in the 2018 film ''[[Black Panther (film)|Black Panther]]'' was inspired by the Southern African [[Lesotho|Kingdom of Lesotho]].<ref name="TimesLive">{{cite news |last1=Smith |first1=Tymon |title=How 'Black Panther's' director fell in love with Lesotho & isiXhosa |url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/sunday-times/lifestyle/2018-02-17-black-panther-director-ryan-cooglers-a-fan-of-lesotho--isixhosa/ |access-date=21 September 2019 |work=Times Live |date=18 February 2018}}</ref><ref name="Vulture">{{cite web |last1=Jones |first1=Nate |title=Black Panther's Wakanda, Explained |url=https://www.vulture.com/2018/02/black-panthers-wakanda-explained.html |website=Vulture |access-date=21 September 2019 |date=15 February 2018}}</ref>
In recent stories by writer [[Ta-Nehisi Coates]], Wakanda is located on [[Lake Victoria]], near fellow fictional nations Mohannda, Canaan, [[Azania]], and Niganda. This places these nations mostly in what in real life is the eastern half of the [[Democratic Republic of the Congo]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theatlantic.com/notes/2016/04/the-world-of-Wakanda/479466/ |title=Conceptualizing the Black Panther |website=[[The Atlantic]] |date=22 April 2016 |access-date=2018-09-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181107110923/https://www.theatlantic.com/notes/2016/04/the-world-of-wakanda/479466/ |archive-date=2018-11-07 |url-status=live }}</ref>
Birnin Zana is located within Wakanda. It is considered by some to be a [[smart city]].<ref>[http://www.ureru.uct.ac.za/sites/default/files/image_tool/images/383/Finding%20Birnin%20Zana.pdf Finding Birnin Zana]</ref> In Birnin Zana, pedestrians walk along commerce-filled streets that are car-free except for the occasional appearance of [[bus]]-like [[Share taxi|shuttle]]s. The whole is quite similar to the [[woonerf]] concept, an approach to public space design which started in the Netherlands in the 1970s. [[Maglev train]]s are seen zipping above and around the city. Wakandan buildings incorporate some traditional African elements, such as [[Thatching|thatched roofs]] and [[hanging garden]]s, on some of the tallest structures.<ref name="architecturaldigest.com">{{cite web|url=https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/the-real-life-possibilities-of-black-panthers-wakanda-according-to-urbanists-and-city-planners|title=The Real-Life Possibilities of Black Panther's Wakanda, According to Urbanists and City Planners|last=|first=|date=28 February 2018|website=architecturaldigest.com|publisher=|access-date=|quote=}}</ref>
==History==
[[File:LocationWakanda.png|thumb|Map of Wakanda from ''Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe'' #12 (December 1983). Art by [[Don McGregor]].]]
Before the emergence of the Wakandan nation, mystic beings known as Originators lived in the region. Originators were diverse races: [[Anansi]] (spider-like), Vanyan (ape-like), Creeping Doom (insectoid), Ibeji (two-headed humanoids){{refn|[[Ibeji]] is a twin orisha}} and Children of Olokun (sea-creatures).<ref>{{Cite book |last=Horne |first=Karama |title=Black Panther: Protectors of Wakanda - A History and Training Manual of the Dora Milaje from the Marvel Universe |publisher=Epic Ink |year=2022}}</ref>{{refn|[[Olokun]] is a orisha of the waters.}}
The Originators were expelled from the region by the humans and the Orisha,{{refn|[[Orisha]]s are deities from the [[Yoruba religion]].}} the [[Pantheon (religion)|pantheon]] of Wakanda consisting of [[Heliopolitans|Thoth]], [[Heliopolitans|Ptah]], Mujaji, Kokou and [[Bast (Marvel Comics)|Bast]], the Panther Goddess.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |url=https://www.cbr.com/black-panther-sequel-new-gods-mcu/ |title=Black Panther's Sequel Could Bring a New Mythology Into the MCU |date=21 February 2018 |access-date=2018-02-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180222225817/https://www.cbr.com/black-panther-sequel-new-gods-mcu/ |archive-date=2018-02-22 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":1">{{cite web|url=https://www.marvel.com/articles/comics/a-guide-to-the-myths-legends-and-gods-of-wakanda|title=A Guide to the Myths, Legends, and Gods of Wakanda|website=Marvel Entertainment|language=en|access-date=2020-01-31}}</ref>
Eons ago during the First Blasphemy, [[Khonshu (Marvel Comics)|Khonshu]] tries to avenge a prisoner that was killed by [[Varnae]] only for Bast to tell Khonshu to stay his hand. Varnae who stole Vibranium from the Fires of Ptah and planned to ascend to godhood. This attracted the attention of Khonshu who met with Bast, Eshu, Gherke, and Ptah during [[Ra (Marvel Comics)|Ra]]'s slumber. He wants the gods in the surrounding realms to be made aware before he retaliates. He gets their support alongside the support of Kokou the Ever-Burning. In the distant past, Bast and Gherke lead the [[Heliopolitans|Enneads]] and the Orishas against Varnae's forces. Kokou confronts Varnae in his temple. The prisoners are evacuated as Bast instructs the black panthers to take the prisoners west and wait for the news of victory.<ref>''Black Panther: Blood Hunt'' #2. Marvel Comics.</ref>
In the distant past, a massive [[meteorite]] made up of the element [[vibranium]] crashed in Wakanda. The meteorite was named Mena Ngai.<ref name=":3" /> It was unearthed a generation before the events of the present day. T'Challa, the previous Black Panther and brother to the current Black Panther, Shuri, is the son of T'Chaka, the Black Panther before him and a descendant of Olumo Bashenga.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Horne |first=Karama |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Dy9xEAAAQBAJ&dq=%22olumo+bashenga%22&pg=PA26 |title=Black Panther: Protectors of Wakanda: A History and Training Manual of the Dora Milaje from the Marvel Universe |date=2022-09-20 |publisher=becker&mayer! books ISBN |isbn=978-0-7603-7580-8 |language=en}}</ref>  Knowing that others would attempt to manipulate and dominate Wakanda for this rare and valuable resource, T'Chaka conceals his country from the outside world. He sells off minute amounts of the valuable vibranium while surreptitiously sending the country's best scholars to study abroad, consequently turning Wakanda into one of the world's most technologically advanced nations. Eventually, however, the explorer [[Klaw (Marvel Comics)|Ulysses Klaue]] finds his way to Wakanda and covers up his work on a vibranium-powered, sound-based weapon. When exposed, Klaue kills T'Chaka, only to see his "sound blaster" turned on him by a grieving teenaged T'Challa. Klaue's right hand is destroyed, and he and his men flee.<ref name="Marvunapp">{{Marvunapp|http://www.marvunapp.com/list/appblackpanther.htm|Black Panther Appendix}}</ref>
Wakanda has an unusually high rate of mutation due to the dangerously [[mutagen]]ic properties of the Vibranium Mound. A large number of these Wakandan Mutates are working for [[Erik Killmonger]].<ref name="Marvunapp" />
Vibranium radiation has permeated much of Wakanda's [[flora]] and [[fauna]], including the Heart-Shaped Herb eaten by members of the Black Panther Tribe (although T'Challa once allowed a dying [[Spider-Man]] to eat it in the hope that it would help him deal with [[Spider-Man: The Other|a mysterious illness]]) and the flesh of the White Gorilla eaten by the members of the White Gorilla Tribe.
In the 2008 "[[Secret Invasion]]" storyline, [[Skrull]] forces led by Commander K'vvvr invade Wakanda and engage Black Panther and his forces. Due to heavy resistance to the deployment of technological developments, both sides are forced to fight with swords and spears. The Wakandan forces voluntarily wear panther masks; this prevents the Skrulls from focusing attacks on their leader. Despite losses, the Wakandans defeat the Skrulls. They kill every single one, including K'vvvr, and send their ship back, packed with the bodies. A warning against invading Wakanda is left written on the wall of the ship's control center.<ref>"Black Panther" vol. 4, #38-41. ''Marvel Comics''</ref>
While under the cosmic power of the [[Phoenix Force (comics)|Phoenix Force]], [[Namor]] attacks Wakanda for hiding the Avengers and destroys much of the country with a tidal wave. After the attack, all mutants (particularly those who were siding with Phoenix controlled mutants) are banned from entering Wakanda as stated by Black Panther. Some students from the Jean Grey school are attacked by the Wakandan people; the students barely flee with the help of Storm.<ref>{{cite comic |writer=Fraction, Matt |penciller=Coipel, Oliver |inker=Morales, Mark |colorist=Martin, Laura |title=Avengers vs. X-Men |issue=7 |date=July 2012 |publisher=Marvel Comics |id=}}</ref>
When Hydra manipulates a sentient cosmic cube named Kobik into unknowingly replacing the real Captain America's Steve Roger with his Hydra counterpart, then enact their [[Secret Empire (2017 comic)|Secret Empire]], Wakanda is under a threat to be taken over by the rise of terrorist group across the universe, with its king T'Challa getting captured and forced to surrender, until all heroes and some villains who rebel against Hydra finally find a way to get both Kobik and the real Steve Rogers back, while rescuing both T'Challa and the rest of both captured and manipulated heroes.<ref>"Captain America" (2017) #25. ''Marvel Comics''</ref><ref>"Secret Empire" #9. ''Marvel Comics''</ref> Once Hydra's empire has been undone, Wakanda expanded its legacy to form an [[Galactic empire|intergalactic empire]] on Planet Bast, while also revoking the mutant ban in their country, such as allowing Storm to visit and help anytime.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cbr.com/black-panther-intergalactic-empire-wakanda-things-should-know/|title=Black Panther: 10 Things Fans Should Know About The Intergalactic Empire Of Wakanda|date=2019-12-11|website=CBR|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref> The empire, now encompassing five galaxies, arises after a mission that sought the origin of Mena Ngai, the meteorite that brought the vibranium to Wakanda.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|date=2021-01-07|title=Black Panther: How the Intergalactic Empire of Wakanda Was Built|url=https://www.cbr.com/black-panther-intergalactic-empire-of-wakanda/|access-date=2021-01-08|website=CBR|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>"Secret Empire" #10. ''Marvel Comics''</ref>
In an alternative timeline set 2000 years in the distant past,<ref>{{cite web |author=Charles Pulliam-Moore |date=May 25, 2018 |title=The Intergalactic Future of Black Panther's Wakanda Is a Bold Statement About Science Fiction |url=https://io9.gizmodo.com/the-intergalactic-future-of-black-panthers-wakanda-is-a-1826323558 |website=[[Gizmodo]]}}</ref><ref name="BPv7-12-15">''Black Panther'' vol. 7 #12-15. Marvel Comics.</ref> a man named after Killmonger's real name, N'Jadaka, became a hero of the empire after retrieving the [[M'Kraan Crystal|Shard of M'Kraan]] during the war against the [[Shi'ar]] Empire. However, the current ruler of Wakanda feared that N'Jadaka would overthrow him, so he sent N'Jadaka along with his squad on a secret suicide mission to take the Matrix of the Mamadou galaxy, which was inhabited by the [[Korg (comics)|Kronans]], [[Caiera|Shadow People]], and the [[Klyntar]]. Upon arriving on a planet in the galaxy, they were quickly attacked by a race known as the Between. Trying to survive, he came across a member of the Klyntar race and bonded with it, since they had a mutual hatred against the current emperor, who made the Klyntar an endangered species.<ref>{{cite web |date=December 1, 2018 |title=Black Panther's Intergalactic Empire Has Ties to Spider-Man's Greatest Foe |url=https://www.cbr.com/black-panther-intergalactic-empire-wakanda-symbiote-connection/ |website=[[Comic Book Resources]]}}</ref> Upon defeating the Between, N'Jadaka and the symbiote killed the emperor and took the throne as the new emperor of the Intergalactic Empire of Wakanda.<ref name="BPv7-1-6">''Black Panther'' vol. 7 #1-6. Marvel Comics</ref> During this time, he got married and conceived a daughter.<ref>''Black Panther'' vol. 7 #6-11. Marvel Comics</ref> Upon finding out that T'Challa from the [[Earth-616|future]] had arrived in his present, he feared that T'Challa would join the Maroon rebels, so he had him become a member of the Nameless, slaves who had their memories wiped and were forced to mine for Vibranium on asteroids.<ref name="BPv7-18">''Black Panther'' vol. 7 #18. Marvel Comics.</ref><ref name="BPv7-1">''Black Panther'' vol. 7 #1. Marvel Comics.</ref> However, T'Challa retained his memories of Storm and managed to escape to join the Maroon's regardless. After that, N'Jadaka approached [[Bast (Marvel Comics)|Bast]] and after recounting his origin, battled Bast's avatar. He was successful in killing it and making his daughter the new Avatar of Bast.<ref name="BPv7">''Black Panther'' vol. 7 #20. Marvel Comics.</ref> After the Maroons got ahold of N'Jadaka's daughter and T'Challa had visited the planet of the Between, N'Jadaka with his army went after the rebels in order to get his daughter back. However, Bast betrayed him and made his Empire fighters crash into the mothership while a rebel commander set the planet holding the rebel base's core to explode as a last ditch attempt to stop him; resulting in the sacrifice of thousands of lives and the apparent death of N'Jadaka.<ref>''Black Panther'' vol. 7 #13-14. Marvel Comics.</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=August 9, 2019 |title=Black Panther's Space Rebellion Unveils Its Own Death Star |url=https://www.cbr.com/black-panther-space-rebellion-own-death-star/ |website=[[Comic Book Resources]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=October 26, 2019 |title=Black Panther is About To Face A SYMBIOTE Killmonger |url=https://screenrant.com/black-panther-killmonger-return-comic/ |website=ScreenRant}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=September 26, 2019 |title=Forget Absolute Carnage - Black Panther Has Marvel's Scariest Symbiote |url=https://www.cbr.com/venom-symbiote-black-panther/ |website=CBR}}</ref>
After N'Jadaka invades Earth, Queen Ramonda forms an alliance with the Originators to prevent total destruction.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Matadeen |first=Renaldo |date=2021-03-18 |title=Black Panther Answers Wakanda's Past With a Lord of the Rings Moment |url=https://www.cbr.com/black-panther-wakanda-past-lord-of-the-rings/ |access-date=2023-02-21 |website=CBR |language=en}}</ref>
==Characterization==
=== Name ===
There are several theories about the etymology of Wakanda. The name may be inspired by a [[Sioux|Siouan]] god called [[Wakan Tanka]]'','' Wakanda, Wakonda, or Waconda; or Wakandas. Or it may draw from a fictional African tribe from [[Edgar Rice Burroughs]]' novel ''[[The Man-Eater]]'', written in 1915 but published posthumously in 1957;<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2018/03/07/the-surprising-religious-backstory-of-black-panthers-wakanda/?outputType=amp|title=The surprising religious backstory of 'Black Panther's' Wakanda|newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180828172205/https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2018/03/07/the-surprising-religious-backstory-of-black-panthers-wakanda/|archive-date=2018-08-28|url-status=live|access-date=2018-09-22}}</ref> or otherwise from any of several terms derived from the [[Proto-Bantu language|Proto-Bantu]] "-ganda", such as the Kenyan [[Kamba people|Kamba]] [[ethnic group]], also called Akamba or Wakamba;<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.refworld.org/cgi-bin/texis/vtx/rwmain?page=search&docid=3ae6ad3a0&skip=0&query=kamba|title=Kenya: The Kamba tribe, including its traditions and beliefs; the religion practised; and whether female genital mutilation is practised|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181116041344/http://www.refworld.org/cgi-bin/texis/vtx/rwmain?page=search&docid=3ae6ad3a0&skip=0&query=kamba|archive-date=2018-11-16|url-status=live|access-date=2018-03-09}}</ref><ref>[https://cinema.everyeye.it/articoli/speciale-black-panther-storia-cultura-geografia-religioni-del-Wakanda-37429.html Black Panther: storia, cultura, geografia e religioni del Wakanda] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180922211733/https://cinema.everyeye.it/articoli/speciale-black-panther-storia-cultura-geografia-religioni-del-wakanda-37429.html|date=2018-09-22}}</ref> or the word ''[[Kanda (lineage)|kanda]]'', which means "family" in [[Kikongo]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://sunubuzzsn.com/international/black-panther-decouvrez-vraie-signification-Wakanda/|title=Black Panther – Découvrez la vraie signification de Wakanda|date=27 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180922211502/https://sunubuzzsn.com/international/black-panther-decouvrez-vraie-signification-Wakanda/|archive-date=2018-09-22|url-status=live|access-date=2018-09-22}}</ref>
=== Language ===
In the comics, Wakanda has three official languages: Wakandan, [[Yoruba language|Yoruba]] and [[Hausa language|Hausa]].<ref name="marvelatlas2"/> In the [[Marvel Cinematic Universe]], characters from Wakanda are portrayed speaking the South African [[Xhosa language]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Breznican |first1=Anthony |title=Black Panther language: Where Captain America: Civil War found the words of Wakanda |url=https://ew.com/article/2016/05/05/black-panther-language-wakanda-xhosa/ |publisher=Entertainment Weekly |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200306185457/https://ew.com/article/2016/05/05/black-panther-language-wakanda-xhosa/ |archive-date=March 6, 2020 |date=May 5, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>Babayi, Ivankosi, Tessa Dowling, Rethabile Possa-Mogoera. 2020. The language of Wakanda: An analysis of the use of isiXhosa in the Hollywood science-fiction film Black Panther. ''South African Journal of African Languages'' 40.3:249-25.</ref> The Jabari Tribe are portrayed speaking a dialect similar to [[Igbo language|Igbo]] from [[Nigeria]].<ref name="PressKit">{{cite web|url=http://www.wdsmediafile.com/media/BlackPanther/writen-material/BlackPanther5a7e0853a38c3.pdf|title=''Black Panther'' Press Kit|publisher=[[Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures]]|access-date=February 16, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190310201206/http://www.wdsmediafile.com/media/BlackPanther/writen-material/BlackPanther5a7e0853a38c3.pdf|archive-date=March 10, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.konbini.com/ng/entertainment/nigerians-are-convinced-black-panther-scene-stealer-mbaku-is-actually-igbo/|title=Nigerians Are Convinced 'Black Panther' Scene-Stealer, M'Baku Is Actually Igbo|website=Konbini - All Pop Everything!|access-date=2020-02-08|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180224181637/http://www.konbini.com/ng/entertainment/nigerians-are-convinced-black-panther-scene-stealer-mbaku-is-actually-igbo/|archive-date=2018-02-24|url-status=dead|date=2018-02-19}}</ref>
In the 2018 film ''[[Black Panther (film)|Black Panther]]'' and its 2022 [[Black Panther: Wakanda Forever|sequel]], the Wakandan language is depicted as being written in a Wakandan writing system based on the [[Nsibidi]] writing system; the Wakandan writing system was created for the film by production designer [[Hannah Beachler]].<ref>{{cite web |author=Bill Desowitz |date=22 Feb 2018 |title='Black Panther': How Wakanda Got a Written Language &#124; IndieWire |url=http://www.indiewire.com/2018/02/black-panther-wakanda-written-language-ryan-coogler-afrofuturism-1201931252/}}</ref> According to designer Zach Fannin, it was also inspired by [[Tifinagh]], [[Ancient South Arabian]] and [[Bamum script]].<ref>[https://creativemarket.com/blog/creating-custom-fonts-black-panther-movie Creating Custom Fonts: An Interview With Zach Fannin from the Black Panther Movie]</ref>
=== Defenses ===
In the comics, Wakanda is the foremost [[military]] power on Marvel Earth. The Wakandan Army is the country's main ground forces,<ref>{{cite comic |title=Black Panther |volume=4 |issue=1 |publisher=Marvel Comics |date=April, 2005}}</ref> while the Wakandan Navy oversees naval operations.<ref>{{cite comic |title=Doomwar |volume=1 |issue=1 |publisher=Marvel Comics |date=April, 2010}}</ref> The Wakandan Air Guard is the nation's [[air force]], which includes pilots wearing powerful suits of combat armor.<ref>{{cite comic |title=Black Panther |volume=4 |issue=4 |publisher=Marvel Comics |date=July, 2005}}</ref> In order to ensure peace and stability in Wakanda, the Black Panther picked [[Dora Milaje]] ("adored ones") from rival tribes to serve as his personal guard and ceremonial wives-in-training.<ref>{{cite comic |title=Black Panther |volume=3 |issue=1 |publisher=Marvel Comics |date=November, 1998}}</ref><ref name="vox">{{Cite web |url=https://www.vox.com/culture/2018/2/21/17017234/black-panther-dora-milaje-wakanda-warriors |title=Get to know the Dora Milaje, Black Panther's mighty women warriors |last=Broadnax |first=Jamie |author-link=Jamie Broadnax |date=February 21, 2018 |website=vox.com}}</ref> Wakanda has its own intelligence system known as the N'Charu Silema; a spy network that worked across the globe to maintain the nation's secrecy.<ref>{{cite comic |title=Rise of the Black Panther |volume=1 |issue=5 |publisher=Marvel Comics |date=July, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite comic |title=Black Panther/Captain America: Flags of our Fathers |volume=1 |issue=2 |publisher=Marvel Comics |date=July, 2010}}</ref> It was considered as good as the [[Mossad]] and certainly better than the [[CIA]] and [[MI6]].<ref>{{cite comic |title=Black Panther |volume=4 |issue=3 |publisher=Marvel Comics |date=June, 2005}}</ref> Later, P.R.I.D.E. (Princess Regent Intelligence Division Executives) was developed as the nation's protection agency.<ref>{{cite comic |title=Black Panther |volume=5 |issue=9 |publisher=Marvel Comics |date=December, 2009}}</ref> The nation has a [[secret police]] called Hatut Zeraze (War Dogs in the Wakandan language).<ref>{{Cite web |date=2018-01-24 |title=Black Panther: Wakanda's War Dogs Hatut Zeraze Explained |url=https://collider.com/black-panther-war-dogs-hatut-zeraze-explained/ |access-date=2023-05-29 |website=Collider |language=en}}</ref> Wakanda is one of the few [[Earth-616]] civilizations who have [[contingency plan]]s for dealing with [[Galactus]], "The Devourer of Worlds".<ref>{{cite comic |title=Black Panther |volume=3 |issue=14 |publisher=Marvel Comics |date=January, 2000}}</ref>
== Wakandan religion ==
Wakanda contains a number of religious sects originating from various places in Africa, the Pantheon of Wakanda is known as ''The Orisha.''<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /> [[Orisha]] is a [[Yoruba language|Yoruba]] word meaning spirit or deity.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Landry |first=Jim |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HjK4DQAAQBAJ&q=orisha+spirit+deity&pg=PT8 |title=Orishas: African Hidden gods of Worship |date=2016-12-08 |publisher=Truth Book Publishers |isbn=978-1-61813-281-9 |language=en}}</ref> [[Bast (Marvel Comics)|Bast]] the Panther Goddess, [[Heliopolitans|Thoth]], god of the moon and wisdom, and [[Heliopolitans|Ptah]], the Shaper, are [[Heliopolitans|Heliopolitan]] deities, who left [[ancient Egypt]] at the time of the [[pharaohs]].<ref name="encyclopaediamythologica">{{cite comic|Writer=[[Anthony Flamini]], [[Greg Pak]], [[Fred Van Lente]] & [[Paul Cornell]]|Penciller=Kevin Sharpe|Inker=Kevin Sharpe|Story=|Title=Thor & Hercules: Encyclopaedia Mythologica|Issue=1|Date=July 2009|Publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]|}}</ref>  [[Kokou (orisha)|Kokou]] is a warrior orisha from [[Benin]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Butler |first=Stuart |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=qM4f8MNsCW4C&q=kokou+benin&pg=PA32 |title=Benin: The Bradt Travel Guide |date=2006 |publisher=Bradt Travel Guides |isbn=978-1-84162-148-7 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-01-20 |title=Au-delà de l'Afrique: l'épopée yoruba |url=https://www.un.org/africarenewal/fr/magazine/d%C3%A9cembre-2019-mars-2020/au-del%C3%A0-de-l%E2%80%99afrique-l%E2%80%99%C3%A9pop%C3%A9e-yoruba |access-date=2020-12-21 |website=AfriqueRenouveau |language=fr}}</ref> [[Mujaji]] is a rain goddess of the [[Lobedu people]] of [[South Africa]].<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Philip |first1=Neil |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=5Oz2nTZvRGYC&q=mujaji+god&pg=PA299 |title=Eyewitness Companions: Mythology: World Myths, Gods, Heroes, Creatures, Mythical Places |last2=Wilkinson |first2=Philip |date=2007-09-03 |publisher=Penguin |isbn=978-0-7566-4221-1 |language=en}}</ref> Other deities are worshiped in Wakanda, such as [[Heliopolitans|Sekhmet]]<ref name="liongod_marvunapp">{{Marvunapp|http://www.marvunapp.com/Appendix/liongod.htm|Lion God}}</ref> and [[Heliopolitans|Sobek]],<ref name="encyclopaediamythologica" /> other Helipolitan deities, and the gorilla gods Ghekre<ref name="encyclopaediamythologica" /> and Ngi, worshiped by the Jabari tribe.<ref name=":2">{{Marvunapp|http://www.marvunapp.com/Appendix4/jabariwhitegorilla.htm|Jabari}}</ref><ref>''Wakanda #1''. Marvel Comics.</ref> The mutant [[Ororo Munroe]] (aka Storm), ex-wife of T'Challa and former queen of Wakanda, is called Hadari-Yao ("Walker of Clouds" in ancient Alkamite), a goddess who preserves the balance of natural things.<ref>{{cite comic|writer=Coates, Ta-Nehisi|penciller=Sprouse. Chris|inker=Vines. Dexter|story=Avengers of the New World: Part 5|title=Black Panther Vol. 6|issue=#17|date=October 2017|Coinkers=Story. Karl}}</ref> Other little-known gods of Wakanda are enemies of Bast,:K'Liluna, the Bast's sister, considered a betrayer,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Erik Killmonger (Wakandan; Black Panther foe) |url=http://www.marvunapp.com/Appendix8/killmonger-erik.html |access-date=2023-01-09 |website=www.marvunapp.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last1=Hill |first1=James |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7sc8EAAAQBAJ&dq=K'Liluna+bast&pg=PA56 |title=Marvel Universe Map By Map |last2=Jones |first2=Nick |date=2021-11-30 |publisher=Penguin |isbn=978-0-7440-5875-8 |language=en}}</ref> and Magba.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Matadeen |first=Renaldo |date=2022-11-09 |title=Black Panther Just Introduced a New God - Who is Already an Enemy of Wakanda |url=https://www.cbr.com/black-panther-wakanda-enemy-magba-evil-god/ |access-date=2023-01-09 |website=CBR |language=en}}</ref>
===Panther cult===
[[Bast (Marvel Comics)|Bast]] the Panther Goddess, based on [[Bastet|Bast]] the [[Ancient Egyptian|ancient Egyptian deity]], is the primary deity of Wakanda.<ref name="encyclopaediamythologica" /><ref>{{Marvunapp|http://www.marvunapp.com/Appendix/bast.htm|Panther God}}</ref> After the vibranium meteor fell, a number of Wakandans were painfully mutated into "demon spirits" and began attacking their fellow Wakandans.
T'Challa's ancestor Olumo Bashenga began to close the vibranium mound to outsiders. He formed a religious order that guarded the mound and fought to keep the "demon spirits" from spreading across the kingdom. As the ceremonial and religious role, he took the title of Black Panther as chief of the Panther Tribe. As part of the cult's ceremonies, a Black Panther is entitled to the use of a heart-shaped herb. The herb enhances the physical attributes of the person who consumes it to near-superhuman levels, in a similar manner to the super-soldier serum.<ref>{{cite web |title=The religion of Black Panther (T'Challa) |url=http://www.adherents.com/lit/comics/BlackPanther.html |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110101231952/http://www.adherents.com/lit/comics/BlackPanther.html |archive-date=2011-01-01 |access-date=2011-01-06 |publisher=Adherents.com}}</ref>
{{Clear}}
===White Gorilla cult===
The tribe that would become the Jabari worshiped Ngi, who was responsible for creating [[Gorilla-Man]].<ref name=":2" /> Ngi was based on the [[Beti-Pahuin peoples|Yaounde]] deity of the same name.<ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=EBEPAQAAIAAJ&q=zamba+ngi+gorilla |title=Larousse Encyclopedia of Mythology |date=1959 |publisher=Prometheus Press |language=en}}</ref> Currently, the Jabari tribe worship the gorilla god Ghekre, based on the [[Baoulé people|Baoulé]] deity of the same name.<ref name="encyclopaediamythologica" /> Wakanda evolved from a hunter-warrior society, and was traditionally ruled by its greatest warrior. The dominant Black Panther Cult outlawed the rival White Gorilla Cult's worship in Wakanda. M'Baku ([[Man-Ape]]) of the Jabari tribe is one of Wakanda's greatest warriors, second only to T'Challa, the Black Panther himself. While T'Challa, king of Wakanda, is on a several-month leave of absence from Wakanda, the ambitious M'Baku plots to usurp the throne. M'Baku flouts T'Challa's edicts and revives the White Gorilla Cult, killing one of the rare white gorillas living in the jungles near Wakanda. M'Baku bathes in the gorilla's blood and eats its flesh which "mystically" confers the gorilla's great strength upon M'Baku. He tries to defeat T'Challa in combat, hoping to take over the country, but is beaten and banished from Wakanda.<ref>{{cite web |title=Man-Ape |url=http://www.marveldirectory.com/individuals/m/manape.htm |access-date=2011-01-06 |publisher=Marveldirectory.com}}</ref>  According to the 2018 film, the White Gorilla cult, known in the film as the Jabari (or the Mountain Tribe), revere the (Hindu) monkey god, [[Hanuman]].<ref>[https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/global-opinions/wp/2018/03/12/what-india-can-learn-from-black-panther/?noredirect=on What India can learn from ‘Black Panther’]</ref>
===Lion cult===
[[Sekhmet (comics)|Sekhmet]] the Lion Goddess, based on the deity [[Sekhmet|of the same name]],<ref name="liongod_marvunapp" /> could possess the form of any human worshipers or the bodies of those sanctified and sacrificed by her worshipers, she transformed these subjects into human avatars of herself. She has a number of other powers, some of which she has demonstrated. Sekhmet could grow in size, move at rapid speeds, teleport herself and others, and alter her specific density. The Lion goddess possessed superhuman strength and durability, and she was immortal. She can manipulate the minds of the weak-willed.
Little is known of the history of the Lion Goddess. She had apparently lost many worshipers over the years to the Cult of the Panther God, despite the fact that Sekhmet physically manifested before its followers, and the Panther God only appears to its priests.<ref name="liongod_marvunapp" />
===Crocodile cult===
[[Heliopolitans|Sobek]] the Crocodile God, based on the deity [[Sobek|of the same name]], appears to be an ancient and somewhat neglected Wakandan deity.<ref name="encyclopaediamythologica" /><ref>{{cite web |title=Comic page |url=http://comicbookresources.com/assets/images/preview/2295/prv2295_pg5.jpg |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120722224332/http://comicbookresources.com/assets/images/preview/2295/prv2295_pg5.jpg |archive-date=2012-07-22 |access-date=2018-02-21 |publisher=CBR}}</ref><ref>As seen in Black Panther vol. 5 #3 (April 2009)</ref>
==Cultural impact and legacy==
[[File:Wakanda as a Window to the Study of Africa, Gene Kannenberg, Jr.webm|thumb|right|A 2023 presentation by Gene Kannenberg, Jr at [[Northwestern University]] considering Wakanda as a fictional lens to view Africa and the [[African diaspora]] from an academic perspective]]
=== Accolades ===
* In 2019, ''[[CBR.com]]'' ranked Wakanda 5th in their "10 Most Iconic Superhero Hideouts In Marvel Comics" list.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Avina |first=Anthony |date=2019-09-06 |title=10 Most Iconic Superhero Hideouts In Marvel Comics, Ranked |url=https://www.cbr.com/marvel-comics-superhero-hideouts-most-iconic-greatest-ranked/ |access-date=2023-01-09 |website=CBR |language=en}}</ref>
* In 2020, ''[[CBR.com]]'' ranked Wakanda 1st in their "10 Most Powerful Fictional Nations In the Marvel Universe" list.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Brueheim |first=Jackson |date=2020-05-17 |title=The 10 Most Powerful Fictional Nations In the Marvel Universe, Ranked |url=https://www.cbr.com/most-powerful-marvel-nations-ranked/ |access-date=2022-11-10 |website=CBR |language=en-US}}</ref>
* In 2021, ''[[Screen Rant]]'' included Wakanda in their "10 Most Important Fictional Marvel Comics Countries" list.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Harn |first=Darby |date=2021-04-08 |title=10 Most Important Fictional Marvel Comics Countries, Including Madripoor |url=https://screenrant.com/most-important-fictional-marvel-comics-countries/ |access-date=2022-11-10 |website=ScreenRant |language=en-US}}</ref>
* In 2022, ''[[CBR.com]]'' ranked Wakanda 5th in their "The Avengers' 10 Best Allies In Marvel Comics" list.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Eckhardt |first=Peter |date=2022-09-15 |title=The Avengers' 10 Best Allies In Marvel Comics |url=https://www.cbr.com/avengers-best-allies-marvel-comics/ |access-date=2022-11-14 |website=CBR |language=en-US}}</ref>
=== Cultural impact ===
==== As a pejorative ====
Social media users in [[Indonesia]] often use "Wakanda" as a [[pejorative]] name for the country, initially used to criticise the government or law enforcement authorities. For instance, a tweet criticising the [[Indonesian police]] may read, "Only in the country of Wakanda, law enforcers only act after it goes viral", instead of mentioning Indonesia directly. The use of such a disguise is intended to avoid problems with legal authorities amidst declining [[freedom of expression]] in Indonesia. A presidential candidate for the [[2024 Indonesian presidential election]], [[Anies Baswedan]], promised to guarantee freedom of expression in Indonesia and once tweeted, "Wakanda no more, Indonesia forever."<ref>{{cite web | url=https://voi.id/en/bernas/338943 | title=Wakanda No More, Indonesia Forever: Highlighting Anies Baswedan's Promise on Freedom of Opinion }}</ref> Another fictional placename, ''Konoha'' (short for ''Konohagakure'' from the ''[[Naruto]]'' series), is also used as a pejorative to refer to Indonesia in a discreet manner.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.viva.co.id/gaya-hidup/inspirasi-unik/1682183-indonesia-sering-disebut-negara-konoha-ini-alasannya|title=Indonesia Sering Disebut Negara Konoha, Ini Alasannya|website=viva.co.id|date=29 January 2024 |access-date=2024-04-25}}</ref>
==== Others ====
* [[Russell Okung]], an [[offensive tackle]] for the [[Los Angeles Chargers]], introduced himself as an alumnus of "Wakanda Tech" during the starting lineups of ''[[NBC Sunday Night Football|Sunday Night Football]]'' in 2018.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Curtis |first1=Charles |title=Chargers' Russell Okung says he attended 'Wakanda Tech' in 'SNF' intro |url=https://ftw.usatoday.com/2018/12/los-angeles-chargers-russell-okung-black-panther-wakanda-tech-snf-intro-video |access-date=December 8, 2023 |work=For The Win |date=December 3, 2018}}</ref> Okung actually attended [[Oklahoma State University]]; after the game, he tweeted that his fictional alma mater was "coming for" [[Alabama Crimson Tide football|Alabama]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Stites |first1=Adam |title=Russell Okung says he's from 'Wakanda Tech' on SNF intro |url=https://www.sbnation.com/2018/12/2/18123064/russell-okung-wakanda-tech-chargers-sunday-night-football-introduction |access-date=December 8, 2023 |work=SBNation |date=December 2, 2018 |language=en}}</ref>
* In December 2019, it was discovered that the [[United States Department of Agriculture|US Department of Agriculture]]'s website listed Wakanda as a [[Free trade|free-trade]] partner, with a list of traded goods which included ducks, donkeys and dairy cows. The USDA claimed the fictional country had been added to the list "by accident during a staff test" and removed it soon after the public became aware of it.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2019/12/18/no-wakanda-is-not-trumps-next-tariff-target-despite-being-removed-us-free-trade-list|newspaper=[[The Washington Post]]|title=No, Wakanda is not Trump's next tariff target — despite being removed from a U.S. free-trade list|first=Reis|last=Thebault|date=December 19, 2019|access-date=December 19, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-50849559|work=[[BBC News]]|title=US government lists fictional nation Wakanda as trade partner|date=December 19, 2019|access-date=December 19, 2019}}</ref>
* The Wakandan capital city, Birnin Zana, could offer an alternative for what future cities could be like in Africa.<ref name="architecturaldigest.com" /> There are already many smart city initiatives being worked out in Africa,<ref>[https://www.brookings.edu/blog/africa-in-focus/2017/11/01/smart-city-initiatives-in-africa/ Smart city initiatives in Africa]</ref> with many [[Ecocity|ecocities]] emerging across the continent.
* Senegalese-American singer [[Akon]] announced plans to build "[[Akon City]]", a [[solar-power]]ed "real-life" Wakanda on 2,000 acres of coastal land in Senegal inspired by Birnin Zana. He first shared his concept for a futuristic, technologically advanced city in 2018 and said it would welcome members of the African diaspora.<ref>[https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/akon-city-senegal-wakanda-intl/index.html R&B singer Akon is building a 'real-life Wakanda' worth $6 billion in Senegal]</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-09-01|title=Music mogul Akon going ahead with futuristic 'Akon City' in Senegal|url=http://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/sep/01/music-mogul-akon-going-ahead-with-futuristic-akon-city-in-senegal|access-date=2021-09-08|website=the Guardian|language=en}}</ref><ref name="architecturaldigest.com" /> ''The Washington Post'' reported that the project had secured $4 billion of the $6 billion investment necessary to build Akon City.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|date=2020-09-07|title=Building Wakanda|url=https://venturebeat.com/2020/09/07/building-wakanda/|access-date=2021-09-08|website=VentureBeat|language=en-US}}</ref>
* Technology writers have also compared Wakandan principles to those expressed in African technology research. Anti-colonial AI, for example, has been described as "in keeping with Wakandan principles" by developing technology for benevolent purposes. It also seeks "to avoid algorithmic exploitation and algorithmic oppression" in [[artificial intelligence]].<ref name=":5" />
* The Wakanda name has also been adopted in small businesses. One example is Wakanda Place, an African and multicultural bar in [[Adelaide|Adelaide, South Australia]]. Entertainment at the bar includes DJs who play music from Africa and the African diaspora.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Elliott|first=Jackson|date=2020-08-26|title=Hindley Street's new African bar is a multicultural wonderland|url=https://glamadelaide.com.au/hindley-streets-new-african-bar-is-a-multicultural-wonderland/|access-date=2021-09-08|website=Glam Adelaide|language=en-AU}}</ref>
==In other media==
===Television===
* Wakanda appears in the 1996 ''[[Fantastic Four (1994 TV series)|Fantastic Four]]'' episode "Prey of the Black Panther".
* Wakanda appears in the ''[[Black Panther (TV series)|Black Panther]]'' TV series.
* Wakanda appears in ''[[The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes]]''.
* Wakanda appears in the ''[[Marvel Disk Wars: The Avengers]]'' episode "His Majesty, Black Panther!"
* Wakanda appears in ''[[Avengers Assemble (TV series)|Avengers Assemble]]''. In the episode "The Panther and the Wolf", it is revealed that some of the Wakandans are part of the [[Shadow Council]] while others are either high-ranking or less fortunate.
* Wakanda appears in the ''[[X-Men '97]]'' episode "Tolerance is Extinction - Part 3".
===Film===
* Wakanda appears in the [[direct-to-video|straight-to-DVD]] [[animation|animated feature]] ''[[Ultimate Avengers 2]]''. This version is an extreme [[Isolationism|isolationist]] nation that views all outsiders as enemies.
* Wakanda appears in ''Lego Marvel Super Heroes – Black Panther: Trouble in Wakanda''.<ref>{{cite web|first=Spencer|last=Christopher|url=https://heroichollywood.com/black-panther-lego-movie/|title='Black Panther' Will Have His Own LEGO Movie Called 'Trouble In Wakanda'|date=October 9, 2017|website=HeroicHollywood|access-date=October 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171026040130/https://heroichollywood.com/black-panther-lego-movie/|archive-date=2017-10-26|url-status=live}}</ref>
* Wakanda appears in the [[Disney XD]] short film ''Black Panther in{{spaces}}… The Visitor''.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cbr.com/disney-xd-to-showcase-marvel-video-comics/ |title=Disney XD to Showcase Marvel Video Comics |date=4 November 2016 |access-date=2018-04-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180321192643/https://www.cbr.com/disney-xd-to-showcase-marvel-video-comics/ |archive-date=2018-03-21 |url-status=live }}</ref>
===Marvel Cinematic Universe===
[[File:Wakanda in Black Panther (film).jpg|thumb|right|Wakanda, as depicted in the 2018 film ''[[Black Panther (film)|Black Panther]]''.]]
Wakanda appears in media set in the [[Marvel Cinematic Universe]] (MCU). Inhabitants from this version of the country speak in the [[Xhosa language]], as [[T'Challa (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|T'Challa]]'s actor [[Chadwick Boseman]] developed using a "regional accent based on where Wakanda would be. He did great research on the very cultural aspects of the character. Even though it's a fictional culture, [he figured out] ways to tether it into real African culture."<ref>Russell, Scarlett (March 11, 2016). [http://www.digitalspy.com/movies/captain-america/news/a786524/captain-america-civil-war-wont-be-visiting-black-panthers-home-country-Wakanda/ "Captain America: Civil War won't be visiting Black Panther's home country Wakanda"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180923011104/http://www.digitalspy.com/movies/captain-america/news/a786524/captain-america-civil-war-wont-be-visiting-black-panthers-home-country-wakanda/ |date=2018-09-23 }}. [[Digital Spy]].</ref> Additionally, it is located at the northern end of Lake Turkana, at a fictional point bordering Ethiopia, South Sudan, Uganda, and Kenya. In real life, this area is actually a disputed border region known as the [[Ilemi Triangle]], claimed by each of these countries. This follows the location of the country in the comics according to ''Marvel Atlas #2''.
The film ''[[Black Panther (film)|Black Panther]]'' further established that, in keeping with this map location, it is a landlocked country in the central mountains far from the coasts. Impassable mountains and jungles around its borders have helped Wakanda isolate itself from outsiders. Internally, Wakanda consists of lush river valleys, mountain ranges rich in natural resources, and a fabulous capital city that integrates space-age technology with traditional designs.
Wakanda consists of five tribes, four of which are united under the rule of the first Black Panther 10,000 years ago. As in the comics, the four tribes (The River tribe, the Mining tribe, the Merchant tribe, and the Border tribe<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.teenvogue.com/story/black-panther-beauty-looks-express-african-pride-afrofuturism |title=Teen Vogue, Black Panther |date=13 February 2018 |access-date=2018-02-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180219151110/https://www.teenvogue.com/story/black-panther-beauty-looks-express-african-pride-afrofuturism |archive-date=2018-02-19 |url-status=live }}</ref>) worship Bast, the panther god, amongst others, and also have a strong spiritual tradition of ancestor worship.
* The '''River Tribe''' wear green clothes made from crocodile skin, with some males wearing a [[lip plate]].
* The '''Mining Tribe''' are in charge of the Vibranium that is mined, stored, and utilized.
* The '''Merchant Tribe''' are responsible for trades and crafts of art, clothing and pieces of art. They also wear veils during a trade to maintain anonymity.
* The '''Border Tribe''' reside on the mountainous borders of Wakanda posing as farmers in order to deceive foreigners of Wakanda's wealth as well as their talent for breeding [[white rhinoceros]] for many purposes.
* The fifth tribe are the '''Jabari''' (or '''Mountain Tribe''') who follow the White Gorilla cult of the god [[Hanuman]] and are staunch traditionalists who isolate themselves in the mountains. While considered part of Wakanda, the Black Panther's hold over the Jabari is tenuous. During the film, their leader [[M'Baku (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|M'Baku]] rejects T'Challa as a worthy heir to the throne during his coronation and challenges him to ceremonial combat to claim it for himself. T'Challa wins the duel but lets M'Baku leave in peace.
The lords of each tribe sit on the king's council, and after the Mountain tribe assists T'Challa in his overthrow of the usurper, [[Erik "Killmonger" Stevens]], M'Baku is also granted a seat on the council in recognition of his loyalty. The four main tribes speak a version of the [[Xhosa language]] while the Jabari speak an [[Igbo language|Igbo]] dialect.<ref name="PressKit"/> The opening animated sequence to ''Black Panther'' explains Wakanda was aware that the outside world was becoming increasingly chaotic throughout various historical events that affected Africa, such as the [[Atlantic slave trade]], the [[Colonialism|colonization]] of Africa by European powers, [[World War I]], and [[World War II]]. The Black Panthers of the past, however, were devoted to defending their own country and did not interfere, instead choosing to hide Wakanda from the world{{--}}fearing that if they became involved and revealed themselves, it would eventually lead to outsiders trying to invade Wakanda. Instead, Wakanda passes itself off as a small, poor Third World nation of humble herdsmen, using an advanced holographic projection shroud around its borders to hide the advanced technological civilization within. A core tension of the film's narrative is that the new Black Panther, T'Challa, is torn between his loyalty to hide and defend Wakanda as its king, and his own conscience to help the faltering world beyond its borders. Later in the film, Killmonger arrives to try to seize the throne{{--}}sharing T'Challa's desire to end Wakanda's isolationism, but by conquering the outside world using Wakanda's advanced technologies and weapons instead. Ultimately, T'Challa defeats Killmonger and decides to reveal Wakanda's true nature to the world during an address at the [[United Nations]]. The film's popularity led to a trend among athletes and celebrities around the world to throw up "Wakanda Forever" salutes after their victories.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2018/03/the-black-panther-Wakanda-forever-symbol-is-showing-up-everywhere|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190721220345/https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2018/03/the-black-panther-wakanda-forever-symbol-is-showing-up-everywhere|url-status=dead|archive-date=2019-07-21|title=The "Wakanda Forever" Symbol Is Showing Up Everywhere|last=Weaver|first=Hilary|work=Vanities|access-date=2018-03-27|language=en}}</ref> Director [[Ryan Coogler]] stated that his depiction of Wakanda was inspired by the southern African kingdom of [[Lesotho]].<ref name="TimesLive" /><ref name="Vulture" /> [[Basotho blanket]]s also became more known as a result of the film and its basis on Lesotho.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.businessinsider.co.za/black-panther-has-not-real-effect-on-the-south-african-sale-of-basotho-blankts-2018-3|title = Black Panther made Basotho blankets world famous – but you wouldn't be able to tell that from local sales}}</ref>
Below are Wakanda's featured appearances:
* Wakanda is briefly shown on a holographic map in ''[[Iron Man 2]]'' and is mentioned in ''[[Avengers: Age of Ultron]]'' as the source nation of vibranium.
* In the [[mid-credit scene]] of ''[[Captain America: Civil War]]'' (2016), [[Steve Rogers (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Steve Rogers]] oversees [[Bucky Barnes (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Bucky Barnes]], having been granted refuge there, going into cryogenic sleep until [[Hydra (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Hydra]]s brainwashing can be removed. This is Wakanda's first appearance.
* In ''[[Black Panther (film)|Black Panther]]'' (2018), Wakanda's background and culture is expanded, which establishes that, like in the comics, the Black Panther's superhuman abilities come from consuming the "heart-shaped herb", local vegetation that was mutated over millions of years following exposure to Vibranium.
* In ''[[Avengers: Infinity War]]'' (2018), members of the [[Avengers (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Avengers]]; Rogers, [[Sam Wilson (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Sam Wilson]], [[Natasha Romanoff (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Natasha Romanoff]], [[James Rhodes (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|James Rhodes]], [[Wanda Maximoff (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Wanda Maximoff]], [[Vision (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Vision]], and [[Bruce Banner (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Bruce Banner]] travel in a Quinjet to Wakanda landing in the capital city so Shuri's advanced science can remove the [[Mind Stone]] from Vision safely. Wakanda is shortly attacked by the [[List of alien races in Marvel Comics#O|Outriders]] led by [[Proxima Midnight]] and [[Cull Obsidian]], members of the [[Black Order (comics)|Black Order]]. The Avengers and Barnes join forces with the Wakandan army to fight them on the open grassland outside of the city. They are aided by the arrival of [[Thor (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Thor]], [[Rocket Raccoon (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Rocket Raccoon]], and [[Groot (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Groot]] who arrive via [[Bifrost]] and assist in defeating the army. In the forest below the Wakandan medical center, the Avengers witness [[Thanos (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Thanos]] arrive through a [[Wormhole]] and defeat them one by one, ultimately claiming the Mind Stone and completing the Infinity Gauntlet. He then snaps his fingers, [[The Blip| eliminating half the population of the universe]], including T'Challa and many other Wakandans.
* In ''[[Avengers: Endgame]]'' (2019),<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cinemablend.com/news/2471823/the-unexpected-challenge-that-came-with-creating-the-portals-for-avengers-endgame|title=The Unexpected Challenge That Came With Creating The Portals For Avengers: Endgame|date=2019-05-15|website=CINEMABLEND|access-date=2019-06-06}}</ref> the restored Wakandans rally behind T'Challa in Wakanda before passing through portals to upstate New York. Wakanda's Golden City holds a celebration for the Blip's victims' restoration.
* In a flashback in the [[The Whole World Is Watching (The Falcon and the Winter Soldier)|fourth episode]] of ''[[The Falcon and the Winter Soldier]]'' (2021), Barnes is seen in a cave verifying that his brainwashing has been undone.
* In ''[[What If...? (TV series)|What If...?]]'' (2021), Wakanda is depicted in different timelines; at the [[What If... T'Challa Became a Star-Lord?|second episode]], [[T'Challa (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|T'Challa]] reunites with his family in Wakanda after having been mistakenly abducted by [[Yondu Udonta (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Yondu Udonta]] and the [[Ravagers (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Ravagers]] 20 years earlier. During the final moments of the [[What If... Zombies?!|fifth episode]], Wakanda is shown, besieged by [[zombie]]s and led by a zombified [[Thanos (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Thanos]] wielding a nearly-complete [[Infinity Gauntlet (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Infinity Gauntlet]]. In the [[What If... Killmonger Rescued Tony Stark?|sixth episode]], Killmonger instigates conflict between Wakanda and the United States and becomes the new Black Panther. In the [[What If... the Watcher Broke His Oath|ninth episode]], Shuri leads [[Pepper Potts]] and the Dora Milaje to arrest Killmonger, but find he disappeared due to him having been recruited by the Watcher to help fight an alternate Ultron.
* On February 1, 2021, a [[Disney+]] series set in Wakanda was announced to be in development, with Coogler being involved through his company, [[Proximity Media]].<ref>{{cite web|title='Black Panther' Helmer Ryan Coogler Stakes His Proximity Media Banner To 5-Year Exclusive Disney Television Deal; Wakanda Series In Works For Disney+|url=https://deadline.com/2021/02/black-panther-ryan-coogler-wakanda-series-disney-plus-exclusive-disney-television-deal-proximity-media-1234684707/|last=Fleming|first=Mike Jr.|work=[[Deadline Hollywood]]|date=February 1, 2021|access-date=February 1, 2021}}</ref> In 2023, Disney announced the name of the project, ''[[Eyes of Wakanda]]'', which will tell the stories of T'Challa and Shuri's ancestors.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Peralta |first=Diego |date=2023-12-12 |title=‘Black Panther’ Is Getting an Animated Series on Disney+ |url=https://collider.com/black-panther-animated-series-disney-plus/ |access-date=2024-10-31 |website=Collider |language=en}}</ref>
* In ''[[Black Panther: Wakanda Forever]]'' (2022), Wakanda's capital city is attacked by [[Namor (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Namor]] and his army, ending with Ramonda's death.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web|last=Ryu|first=Jenna|title=Marvel reveals 'Black Panther' sequel's title and release date in nostalgic megatrailer|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/movies/2021/05/03/black-panther-wakanda-forever-marvel-movie-announcements-megatrailer/4922024001/|access-date=2021-05-05|website=USA TODAY|language=en-US}}</ref>
===Video games===
* Wakanda appears as a stage in ''[[Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2]]''.
* Wakanda makes a cameo in Storm's ending in ''[[Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds]]''.
* Wakanda's Vibranium mines appear as a level stage in ''[[Marvel Heroes (video game)|Marvel Heroes]]''.
* Wakanda appears as a stage in ''[[Disney Infinity 3.0]]''.<ref>{{cite web |author=Todd Spangler |url=https://variety.com/2015/digital/news/disney-infinity-marvel-battlegrounds-play-set-1201614481/ |title='Marvel Battlegrounds' Disney Infinity Play Set Features Revealed – Variety |publisher=Variety.com |date=2015-10-09 |access-date=2018-02-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160319144807/http://variety.com/2015/digital/news/disney-infinity-marvel-battlegrounds-play-set-1201614481/ |archive-date=2016-03-19 |url-status=live }}</ref>
* Wakanda, merged with ''[[Monster Hunter 4]]''{{'}}s Val Habar to become '''Valkanda''', appears as a stage in ''[[Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite]]''.<ref>{{cite web |last=Schmidt |first=Joseph |url=http://comicbook.com/gaming/2017/07/21/sdcc17-marvel-vs-capcom-infinite-live-blog/ |title=SDCC17 Marvel Vs. Capcom: Infinite: Live Blog |publisher=Comicbook.com |date=2017-07-21 |access-date=2018-02-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180504010424/http://comicbook.com/gaming/2017/07/21/sdcc17-marvel-vs-capcom-infinite-live-blog |archive-date=2018-05-04 |url-status=live }}</ref>
* Wakanda appears in ''[[Lego Marvel Super Heroes 2]]''. [[Kang the Conqueror]] steals it, among other locations to create [[Chronopolis (Marvel Comics)|Chronopolis]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2018/02/13/lego-marvel-super-heroes-2-black-panther-dlc-revealed|title=LEGO Marvel Super Heroes 2 Black Panther DLC Revealed|last=Dornbush|first=Jonathon|date=13 February 2018|website=IGN|language=en-US|access-date=21 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180421163756/http://www.ign.com/articles/2018/02/13/lego-marvel-super-heroes-2-black-panther-dlc-revealed|archive-date=2018-04-21|url-status=live}}</ref>
* A Wakandan embassy appears ''[[Spider-Man (2018 video game)|Marvel's Spider-Man]]'' series, developed by [[Insomniac Games]]. A Wakandan Flag is also a collectible Time Capsule item in the series' ''[[Spider-Man: Miles Morales|Miles Morales]]'' followup.
* Wakanda appears in ''[[Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3: The Black Order]]''.
* Wakanda appears in the digital collectible card game ''[[Marvel Snap]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Thwaites |first=Sarah |date=2022-11-17 |title=Every Marvel Snap location (and what they do) |url=https://www.polygon.com/guides/23463426/marvel-snap-full-location-list-zones-abilities |access-date=2023-02-07 |website=Polygon |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Arnold |first=Matt |date=2022-10-22 |title=Marvel Snap: Complete Locations Guide |url=https://www.thegamer.com/marvel-snap-complete-locations-guide/ |access-date=2023-02-07 |website=TheGamer |language=en}}</ref>
* Wakanda appears in the "Black Panther: War for Wakanda" DLC for ''[[Marvel's Avengers (video game)|Marvel's Avengers]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Marvel's Avengers: War For Wakanda Looks Like The Black Panther Game You Wanted |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/marvels-avengers-war-for-wakanda-looks-like-the-black-panther-game-you-wanted/1100-6495132/ |access-date=2023-02-07 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US}}</ref> Five years prior, T'Challa was going to align Wakanda with the Avengers. However, following Captain America's assumed death and the Avengers' disbandment, he closed Wakanda's borders. In the present, after Captain America was found alive and Avengers is reassembled, [[Advanced Idea Mechanics|A.I.M.]] hires Klaw to assist in their efforts to steal Vibranium and scientists from Wakanda, but T'Challa and Wakanda's forces work with the Avengers to repel the villains. After Klaw's demise, T'Challa relieves from his duty as a king and appointed his sister, Shuri as the country's new queen.
===Books===
====Novels====
* {{cite book|last=J. Holland|first=Jesse|author-link=Jesse J. Holland|date=2017|title=Black Panther: Who is the Black Panther?|url=|location=|publisher=|page=|isbn=978-1302902674|quote=}}
* {{cite book|last=McCann|first=Jim|author-link=Jim McCann (writer)|date=2018|title=Black Panther – The Junior Novel|url=|location=|type=[[novelization]] of the movie ''[[Black Panther (film)|Black Panther]]''|page=|isbn=9780316413206|quote=}}
* {{cite book|last=Smith|first=Ronald L.|author-link=Ronald L. Smith|date=|title=Black Panther: The Young Prince|url=|location=|publisher=|page=|isbn=9781484787649|quote=}}
* {{cite book|last=Stone|first=Nic|author-link=Nic Stone|date=2020|title=Shuri: A Black Panther Novel|url=|location=|publisher=|page=|isbn=9781338585476|quote=}}
*{{cite book|last=Stone|first=Nic|author-link=Nic Stone|date=2021|title=Shuri: The Vanished|url=|location=|publisher=|page=|isbn=9780702302831|quote=}}
====Anthology====
* {{cite book|last=J. Holland|first=Jesse|author-link=Jesse J. Holland|date=2021|title=Black Panther: Tales of Wakanda|url=|location=|publisher=|page=|isbn=9781789095678|quote=}}
====Little Golden Books====
Two [[Little Golden Books]] were published.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/series/LGB/little-golden-book/?page=13|title=Little Golden Book|website=[[Penguin Random House]]|language=en-US|access-date=2020-02-03}}</ref>
* {{cite book|last=Berrios|first=Frank|author-link=|date=2018|title=Black Panther|url=|location=|publisher=|page=|isbn=9781524763886|quote=}}
* {{cite book|last=Berrios|first=Frank|author-link=|date=2018|title=Warriors of Wakanda|url=|location=|publisher=|page=|isbn=9781984831729|quote=}}
====Mighty Marvel Chapter Books====
* {{cite book|last=Snider|first=Brandon T.|author-link=Brandon T. Snider|date=2018|title=Black Panther: Battle for Wakanda|url=|location=|publisher=|page=|isbn=9781368020145|quote=}}
==== Miscellaneous ====
* Wiacek, Stephen. (2018). ''Marvel Black Panther: The Ultimate Guide.'' {{ISBN|9781465466266}}
* Horne, Karama. (2022); ''Black Panther: Protectors of Wakanda: A History and Training Manual of the Dora Milaje from the Marvel Universe''. {{ISBN|9780760375808}}
* [[Evan Narcisse|Narcisse, Evan.]] (2022). ''Wakanda Atlas''. {{ISBN|9780744050301}}
* Womack, Ytasha. (2023). ''Black Panther: A Cultural Exploration''. {{ISBN|9780760375617}}
*
==See also==
*[[List of fictional African countries]]
*[[Wakamba]], a [[Bantu peoples|Bantu]] ethnic group in Kenya.
*[[Wauconda, Illinois|Wauconda]], places in the United States with a similar sounding name
*''[[Black Panther: Wakanda Forever]]'', 2022 American [[superhero film]] based on the [[Marvel Comics]] character [[Black Panther (character)|Black Panther]]
==References==
* [[File:CC BY-SA icon.svg|50px]] Text in this article was copied from [https://marvel.fandom.com/wiki/Wakanda Wakanda] at the Marvel Database, which is released under a [https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 (Unported) (CC-BY-SA 3.0) license].
{{reflist}}
==External links==
{{sisterlinks|d=yes|c=category:Wakanda|voy=no|m=no|mw=no|f=no|s=no|species=no|b=no|q=no|wikt=Reconstruction:Proto-Bantu/-ganda|v=no|n=no}}
* [https://www.marvel.com/places-locations/wakanda Wakanda] at the Marvel Universe wiki
* [https://www.marvel.com/articles/comics/the-origin-of-black-panther-and-wakanda The Origin of Black Panther and Wakanda]
* [https://www.marvel.com/articles/comics/a-guide-to-the-myths-legends-and-gods-of-wakanda A Guide to the Myths, Legends, and Gods of Wakanda]
* [http://worldofblackheroes.com/2010/08/30/Wakanda/ World of Black Heroes: Wakanda Biography]
* {{Marvunapp|http://www.marvunapp.com/list/appblackpanther.htm|Black Panther}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20110101231952/http://www.adherents.com/lit/comics/BlackPanther.html The Religion of Black Panther]
* {{Marvunapp|http://www.marvunapp.com/Appendix/liongod.htm|Lion God}}
* [http://www.marveldirectory.com/individuals/m/manape.htm Marvel Directory: Man-Ape]
* [http://www.marvel.com/universe/Queen_Divine_Justice Marvel Universe Online: Queen Divine Justice]
* [http://www.comicboards.com/marvelguide/blackpantherindex.html Black Panther series index]
* {{Marveldatabase}}
{{Black Panther}}
{{Stan Lee}}
{{Jack Kirby}}
{{Fictional countries}}
{{Authority control}}
[[Category:1966 in comics]]
[[Category:Fictional elements introduced in 1966]]
[[Category:Afrofuturism]]
[[Category:Africanfuturism]]
[[Category:Fictional African countries]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics countries]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics locations]]
[[Category:Wakandans|*]]
[[Category:Fictional kingdoms]]
[[Category:Bastet]]
[[Category:Ptah]]
[[Category:Sekhmet]]
[[Category:Solarpunk]]