Books matching: african history
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- #1
Save:"Things Fall Apart" by Chinua Achebe explores the impact of European colonization on a Nigerian village and its inhabitants, particularly focusing on the protagonist, Okonkwo, a proud and traditional tribal leader. The narrative delves into the clash of cultures between the native Igbo society and the encroaching Christian missionaries, leading to the unraveling of traditional customs and beliefs. Through a spare and distinctly African voice, the story vividly depicts the struggles of Okonkwo as he grapples with personal conflicts, societal changes, and the looming presence of imperialism.
Set against the backdrop of pre-colonial Nigeria, "Things Fall Apart" provides a thought-provoking portrayal of the complexities of tribal life, the tensions between tradition and modernity, and the devastating consequences of external interference. The novel weaves together themes of masculinity, family dynamics, cultural identity, and the erosion of indigenous practices, offering a poignant commentary on the destructive forces of imperialism and the resilience of a society facing profound transformation.
Okonkwo was well known throughout the nine villages and even beyond. His fame rested on solid personal achievements. As a young man of eighteen he had brought honour to his village by throwing Amalinz... 'How Europe Underdeveloped Africa' by Walter Rodney is a detailed analysis of the historical factors contributing to Africa's underdevelopment compared to the 'First World'. Rodney's writing style is described as accessible and informative, providing a chronological sequence of Africa's development and European interference. He delves into the impact of slavery and colonialism on African societies, highlighting the strategies employed by Europeans to exploit and suppress the continent. Rodney's work is considered a seminal piece on the legacy of European destruction in Africa, offering a broad background on the history of European involvement on the continent.
In contrast with the surging growth of the countries in the socialist camp and the development taking place, albeit much more slowly, in the majority of the capitalist countries, is the unquestionable...- #3
Save:'King Leopold's Ghost' by Adam Hochschild is a powerful and disturbing account of King Leopold II's colonization of the Congo. The book delves into the atrocities committed during this period, shedding light on the exploitation, violence, and greed that characterized Leopold's rule. Through meticulous research and clear, journalistic writing, Hochschild brings to life the horrors faced by the Congolese people, while also highlighting the heroes who fought against such injustices. The narrative is chilling, revealing a dark chapter in history that continues to impact the region even today.
ON JANUARY 28, 1841, a quarter-century after Tuckey's failed expedition, the man who would spectacularly accomplish what Tuckey tried to do was born in the small Welsh market town of Denbigh. He was e... Martin Meredith's 'The State of Africa: A History of the Continent Since Independence' provides a comprehensive look at the post-independence history of African countries. The book delves into the political, social, and economic transformations that have shaped modern Africa, covering topics such as struggles for freedom, corruption, civil wars, and the impact of colonial legacies. Meredith's journalistic style offers a detailed account of the challenges faced by African nations, portraying a continent marked by tragedies, dictatorships, and struggles for democracy.
The narrative in 'The State of Africa' is a sobering exploration of the complexities and struggles that have defined Africa in the past fifty years. Through case studies of individual countries, Meredith uncovers the patterns of poor governance, corruption, and violence that have hindered progress across the continent. The book presents a critical analysis of African history since independence, highlighting the role of bad leadership and external influences in shaping the continent's trajectory.
At his headquarters at Christiansborg Castle, a seventeenth-century slaving fort from where British governors had ruled the Gold Coast for fifty years, Sir Charles Arden-Clarke awoke on the morning of...- #5
Save:Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a compelling novel set during Nigeria's Biafran War in the 1960s. The story follows characters from various backgrounds, including Ugwu, Olanna, Odenigbo, and twin sisters Olanna and Kainene, as they navigate through the political turmoil and personal struggles brought on by the war. Adichie's writing style seamlessly weaves together different perspectives and time periods, providing a vivid portrayal of the impact of war on individuals and families in post-colonial Nigeria.
Master was a little crazy; he had spent too many years reading books overseas, talked to himself in his office, did not always return greetings, and had too much hair. Ugwu's aunty said this in a low ... - #6
Save:'Africa's World War: Congo, the Rwandan Genocide, and the Making of a Continental Catastrophe' by Gerard Prunier is a comprehensive account of the Congo Wars, described as one of the most obscure wars in recent history involving various African nations. Prunier delves into the complexities of the conflicts, including the involvement of multiple state and non-state forces, providing a detailed and vivid narrative of the events that unfolded in the region. The author's writing style is described as challenging and information-rich, requiring diligence from the reader to grasp the intricate history of central Africa during that period.
- #7
Save:'The Wretched of the Earth' by Frantz Fanon is a powerful analysis of the psychological and social impact of colonization on oppressed peoples. Fanon delves into the challenges faced by postcolonial nations, emphasizing the need for liberation from oppressive forces. Through compelling case studies and revolutionary insights, Fanon explores the complexities of decolonization, highlighting the struggles and pitfalls that accompany the path to freedom. His writing style weaves together historical analysis with psychological profiles, offering a unique perspective on the dynamics of colonialism and the fight for independence.
National liberation, national reawakening, restoration of the nation to the people or Commonwealth, whatever the name used, whatever the latest expression, decolonization is always a violent event. At... - #8
Save:'Introduction To African Civilizations' by John Henrik Clarke, Runoko Rashidi, and John G. Jackson is a comprehensive view of African history that dispels Eurocentric misconceptions and untruths. It informs the reader about the most likely origin of humankind and tells the history of the African continent in the last 10,000 years. showcases the advanced stage of civilization that Africa reached prior to European colonization and highlights the significant influence of Africa on the development of concepts in world civilization.
The writing style of the book is described as thorough, informative, and well-researched. It places African history into its correct context, emphasizing Africa's place among the elites of civilization. is structured in a balanced way, presenting arguments supported by significant evidence, including references from European writers and scholars. It challenges Eurocentric narratives and encourages readers, especially African Americans, to explore the grandeur of African civilization and the contributions of African people to world history.
"Homegoing" by Yaa Gyasi is a powerful novel that traces the descendants of two half-sisters, Esi and Effia, born in Ghana, whose lives take different paths during the 18th century. One sister is sold into slavery and taken to America, while the other remains in Ghana, married to a white slaver. The book follows successive generations from both lineages, providing a sweeping narrative that explores themes of family, identity, history, and the enduring impact of slavery on both African and American descendants. The novel is structured as a series of linked stories, each chapter focusing on a different character in the family tree, moving between Ghana and America, capturing the struggles, triumphs, and hardships faced by each generation.
Yaa Gyasi's writing style in "Homegoing" is praised for its beauty, descriptive prose, and captivating storytelling. The book seamlessly alternates between the two family branches, offering glimpses into the lives of each character over centuries, from the Gold Coast of Africa to present-day America. Gyasi skillfully weaves together historical events, familial connections, and individual experiences, creating a compelling narrative that sheds light on the complexities of race, heritage, and the enduring legacy of slavery across generations.
THE NIGHT EFFIA OTCHER was born into the musky heat of Fanteland, a fire raged through the woods just outside her father’s compound. It moved quickly, tearing a path for days. It lived off the air; it...'Sudan: Darfur and the Failure of an African State' by Richard Cockett delves into the complex history and ongoing internal strife of Sudan. It provides a thorough review of the factors, factions, outside forces, and infighting that have shaped the country. The author explores the failures of humanitarianism, the manipulation by political figures like Hassan El Turabi, the post-colonial legacy, and the involvement of various stakeholders in Sudan's conflicts.
Cockett's writing style is described as deep, rich, and well-argued, offering a comprehensive diagnosis of Sudan's problems. covers the history of the war in the region, the rebal formation fighting against the government, and highlights key figures in Sudanese history. It is recommended for those interested in understanding the conflict in Sudan and provides insights into the country's internal conflicts beyond Darfur.
Khartoum, the capital of Sudan, is situated at the junction of the White Nile and the Blue Nile. Not that there is usually anything very colourful about either river – suffice it to say that in the mi...
