African History - By Category
Apartheid
The Afrikaans word meaning ‘separation’, Apartheid was the racial, social policy introduced by the National Party government of South Africa in 1948.
Slavery and the Slave Trade
African people have been captured and sold as slaves within their own continent, across the Atlantic, and in the East. Even today reports in the news suggest slavery still exists.
Biographies of Historical Figures
Biographies of significant figures from throughout Africa's history. Study the lives of explorers, rulers, artists, warriors, and thinkers who had a prominent role in the development of the continent.
Military History
Africa is a turbulent continent with many wars in its history, from ancient conflicts, to wars of independence, to civil wars today.
African History Glossary
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Human Origins in Africa
Is Africa truly the cradle of humankind? The oldest fossils of humankind's early ancestors have been found on the African continent. Other scientific evidence supports Africa's significant role in human evolution.
Pre-Colonial Africa
During this era Africa was influenced by two major movements: the expansion and consolidation of Islam and the dispersion of the Bantu peoples which led to the the development of many kingdoms and empires. Investigate the impact, interaction, and conflict which arose and the development of trade and exchange -- both of commodities and culture.
Colonial Africa
Africa is transformed under internal and external pressures. Famine and disease, as well as territorial conflicts such as the Mfecane, cause distinct changes in African society. The abolition of the slave trade, forcibly imposed on European interests in Africa by Britain, as well as the European Scramble for Africa leaves traditional cultures fractured and bleeding.
Independent Africa
The struggle for independence which followed the First World War had a serious effect on European empires. Investigate both peaceful and bloody resistance to Colonial domination as Africa reclaims it's own identity.
Timelines for African History
Follow significant events in African history through this collection of timelines.
Country History A to Z
The histories of Africa countries are varied. Find out more about the history of these 55 African countries, from continent and surrounding island groups.
Country History by Region
The histories of Africa countries show a strong regional flavor, from the Muslim north to the British colonial south and French colonial West. Use these five regional groupings to locate the country you are particularly interested in.
African History Resources
Miscellaneous resources on African history – biographies, book and product reviews, and an African history glossary.