Course Synopsis:

The course will examine the nature of interactions that Africans forged among themselves and with their environment from the earliest times until the 19th century. It will explore major themes in the political, economic, and socio-cultural history of Africa, exploring similarities and diversities in their overall historical experiences before 1800. The classes will engage with topics dealing with the social structures, cultures, political organizations and economy of African peoples and societies, as well as with their relationship with forces emanating from outside of Africa up until 1800.

Method of Evaluation and Weights:

Essay - 30%
Class presentation & discussion - 40%
Final Exam - 30%

Required Texts:

TBA
The main text used in W17 was Christopher Ehret, The Civilizations of Africa : a History to 1800  (James Currey, 2002), accessible online when you log into McLaughlin Library website.

*Please note: This is a preliminary web course description only. The department reserves the right to change without notice any information in this description. The final, binding course outline will be distributed in the first class of the semester.