Hi drac,
As others have already noted, a northern African origin for these swords has been pretty much dismissed. That discussion is in the Archives. Instead, a Spanish Colonial origin from Latin America appears to be their actual source. Some of these machete/swords seem to have ended up in northern Africa, presumably via Spanish trade routes, which has confused the story somewhat and may have led some to think they were African in origin.
Thanks for reviving this topic It is some time since it was last raised and the African-origin idea persists.
Regards, Ian
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