During the Guelowar period (the last maternal dynasty in the Serer kingdoms), the Faye family provided many of the kings of Sine.

The early history of the Faye family goes back to Lamanic times, however they did not achieve particular fame and notoriety until the 14th century.

[2][8] Their family totem is the African warthog (called "ruul a koб" in Serer,[9] variation: "ruul-a-koƥ"[10]) — (previously grouped with the boar).

[9][11] In the early part of the Guelowar dynastic period (1350–1969), the Faye paternal dynasty was dominant in Sine, providing many of the Serer kings.

[8] Notwithstanding the rivalries between these two patriclans, alliances were formed on certain occasions in order to repulse those they perceived as the greater enemy.

That historical alliance was brought about when the Muslim marabout—Mohammadou of Koungo launched jihad in the Sine, threatening the survival of Serer religion in the country.

[12] The table below lists some historical battles in Senegambia involving the kings or princes from this patriclan : This abbreviated genealogy shows the descendants of Boukar Djillakh Faye.