Course content

This course provides an overview of the main issues in modern African history (Africa south of the Sahara) in the period from ca. 1700 to the present. The goal is to provide insights into the important processes that brought change to African communities, as seen from a long historical perspective. Important processes includes the transatlantic slave trade, colonialism, post-colonialism and democratization. Africa will be examined in a global context, with contact and interaction with the rest of the world as a central theme. Both external and internal factors will be considered in discussions of Africa's development. The course will also contextualize and problematize perceptions of Africa that have been created since the 18th century and in many instances preserver. The course is an elective course for a bachelor's degree in history and the study program in history with teacher education. Information on topics for the academic year is found under studies on the webpage for the department with academic responsibility.

Learning outcome

A candidate who passes this course is expected to have the following learning outcome according to the course curriculum, defined as knowledge and skills:

Knowledge

Candidates have

• demonstrated broad knowledge of the central political, economic and social themes in the history of Africa from the 18th century (1700s) to the present
• demonstrated knowledge of the different historical perspectives that are used in explaining developments in Africa from the 18th century (1700s) to the present

Skills

Candidates

• can account for the central historical processes that trigger changes in African development from the 18th century (1700s) to the present
• can explain continuities and breaks in perceptions of Africa
• can demonstrate capability to focus, reason, and argue well when dealing with themes from African history
• can can write an expository essay on central themes in African history from the period

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and seminars. Written term papers, evaluated as approved/not approved, must be passed to sit the exam. These obligatory assignments are valid for the current and the following three semesters. Six-hour final examination.

Compulsory assignments

• Essignment

Recommended previous knowledge

None

Required previous knowledge

None

Course materials

See syllabus

Credit reductions