COURSE TITLE: Modern Africa
COURSE NUMBER: HIST 192
SECTION TIMES/DAYS: MWF 01 800-850 02 1000-1050 03 1100-1150
INSTRUCTOR: Petrocelli, R.
COURSE DESCRIPTION/PRINCIPAL TOPICS
This course addresses Modern Africa, which is Africa since 1800. The focus of the course is the numerous
transitions Africans have made as global circumstances have changed, as well as they ways African actions and
choices have affected the shape states and societies on the continent have taken today. This course emphasizes
historical change and continuity and encourages students to think about Africa in that way, rather than as an
entity that has been frozen in time and separated from the rest of the globe. Certain case studies will form the
core of the course: Senegal, Nigeria, South Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Rwanda are among those
countries. However, many more areas of Africa will enter the course material over the semester. “Modern Africa”
treats political, social, and cultural history, using primary sources, a textbook, and novels written by African
writers. It is an excellent and challenging first exposure to Africa and a good base from which to move into other
courses about the continent.
STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
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To learn about the path African societies and states have taken over the past 150 years, focusing on:
changing systems of governance, shifting borders and identities, and the resilience of people in the face
of challenges that present themselves over time.
To gain insight into colonialism and its dynamics, as well as the history of Europe’s interaction with
Africa.
To understand the diversity of African cultures, religions, and social organization.
To improve skills in reading for efficiency and understanding, engaging in intellectual dialogue with
colleagues, time management, and thinking historically.
PREREQUISITES/RECOMMENDED BACKGROUND
None. An interest in learning more about Africa and to working diligently is all that is necessary.
REQUIRED TEXTS
Richard Reid, A history of modern Africa: 1800 to the present
Amadou Hampate Ba, The Fortunes of Wangrin
Chinua Achebe, No Longer at Ease
Scott Straus, The Order or Genocide
Small course reader – available for purchase on first day of class
COURSE WORK/EXPECTATIONS
Regular and active participation
Map test
Two quizzes
Three reading responses
Mid-term
Final Exam