Postcolonial African history is one of triumph and tragedy. End of European colonialism marked a watershed moment for the right to self-determination of African peoples. The jubilation of the 1960s were, however, quickly overtaken by natural and man-made challenges; and internal and external shocks delayed the dividends of decolonization and dampened the excitement about independence. This course is a critical reflection on the high- and low-water marks of African history since the end of European colonial rule.
Readings and seminars are designed to do an in-depth analysis of the legal basis and various processes of decolonization and the challenges and opportunities of independence, including demographic boom, the war on terror, natural resources, and the environment.
Note: Students can only take one of HIST 452 or HIST 402-006 in Fall 2025.
