This course will introduce students to the history of Africa through a chronological examination of key themes and topics from the earliest times until the recent post-independence period. Highlighting the interdisciplinary methodologies that anchor history, the course will consider archeological evidence, oral traditions, historical linguistics, and written documents in its examination of the most significant developments of the African past. These developments will include the creation of modern human culture, early state building efforts, the introduction of Christianity and Islam, the Atlantic Slave trade, colonialism and nationalism, and Africa's relationship with globalization. The course will enable students to develop an understanding of historical factors that have shaped and continue to influence the history of the African continent.
This course will introduce students to the history of Africa through a chronological examination of key themes and topics from the earliest times until the recent post-independence period. Highlighting the interdisciplinary methodologies that anchor history, the course will consider archeological evidence, oral traditions, historical linguistics, and written documents in its examination of the most significant developments of the African past. These developments will include the creation of modern human culture, early state building efforts, the introduction of Christianity and Islam, the Atlantic Slave trade, colonialism and nationalism, and Africa's relationship with globalization. The course will enable students to develop an understanding of historical factors that have shaped and continue to influence the history of the African continent.