Mar 29, 2024  
2020-21 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2020-21 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

HS 230 Cultural History of Modern Africa


This cultural history of contemporary Africa explores how political and economic processes have historically influenced social structures, institutions and cultural patterns. We look at imperialism, colonialism, independence, international aid, economic globalization and various global conflicts all of which have shaped and been shaped by the history of the continent. The course focuses on three interrelated themes: cultural processes and social institutions just prior to European colonization of Africa, the ruptures of these cultural processes and social institutions caused by colonialism, and the legacy of the ruptures during the post-colonial era. We pay particular attention to the integration of Africa with other parts of the world and the centrality of Africa to global political, economic and social processes.