5 Surprising Facts About African History You Never Learned in School
Breaking the Chains of Ignorance: The Fight for African History - Part 1
Greetings,
Growing up, I was livid with the injustice of the education system's blatant disregard for Black and African history.
It was as if the powers that be were determined to erase our stories, cultures, and contributions from the annals of time. It was a cruel form of cultural genocide. But as I delved deeper into the rich tapestry of African history, I was struck by the sheer magnitude of what had been kept hidden from me and generations of students like me.
It was like uncovering a lost treasure trove of knowledge and culture, and I was awestruck by Africa's contributions to humanity and the world.
Here are five explosive, eye-opening facts about African history that were hidden from me in school:
Ancient Africa was the birthplace of some of humanity's earliest and most advanced civilisations. The Kingdom of Kush, for example, was a magnificent and powerful empire that flourished in what is now Sudan for over a thousand years. With its sophisticated government, innovative agriculture, and thriving iron industry, it was a beacon of progress and prosperity. Yet, in my history classes, it was nothing more than a footnote.
The transatlantic slave trade was not just about human chattel, it was about cultural and intellectual theft. African slaves brought with them their knowledge, skills, and traditions, which had a profound impact on the development of the Americas. The African diaspora created new communities, music, and religions, such as Santeria, Candomble, and Voodoo, that continue to shape the world today.
Africa has been the crucible of major scientific advancements and innovations. The ancient Egyptians, for example, were masters of mathematics, engineering, and medicine. Their knowledge was later adopted and spread by the Greeks and Romans, and played a critical role in the scientific revolution of the Renaissance.
Africa's musical heritage is unparalleled, and it has shaped popular music around the world. From jazz to hip hop, African rhythms and melodies have been incorporated and adapted, creating the soundtrack of the 20th and 21st centuries.
Africa is a repository of global cultural heritage, home to many world heritage sites recognised for their historical and cultural significance. From the Great Pyramids of Giza to the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, Africa's contributions to humanity's shared cultural heritage are immeasurable.
It is a travesty that these vital aspects of African history were deliberately omitted from the education system.
It perpetuates ignorance, reinforces harmful stereotypes, and is a form of systemic oppression. It's time to shatter the chains of ignorance and celebrate Africa's incredibly diverse history and culture.
I am determined to shine a light on the history of Africa and its people, and help create a powerful African future. Let us enjoy the process of discovering African history, and ensure that future generations receive a comprehensive and accurate education.
Warmly, Ray Rizzel
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