This blog is part of a semester-long 10th grade history course at Berkeley Carroll. Time constraints make a thorough study of Africa's long and rich history impossible, so ours is a selective journey, focusing mostly on historical issues in Congo, South Africa and Rwanda, with some attention to contemporary issues like HIV/AIDS and the debate over international aid vs. local solutions to problems. By the end of the course, we hope to be able to answer questions like:
1. How can geography affect the course of history?
2. What is the legacy of 19th and 20th century imperialism in 21st century Africa?
3. Why have efforts to establish democratic government succeeded in some parts of Africa but failed in others?
4. How and why has violence been used as a tool to effect change in Africa?
5. How is identity constructed in Africa? Is there such a thing as an African? Is identity based on one’s country? One’s ethnic group? Is it imposed from outside? Does it depend on the circumstances?
Students will use this blog to reflect, challenge and pose questions in response to readings, films, museum exhibits, and items they come across in the newspaper or on television. We invite you to participate in these discussions as well; all we ask is that you be respectful of of the fact that this is a new topic for most of us, and we're using this space to share and test ideas rather than offer expert opinions. Thank you!
