African History: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade
A brief review of the triangular trade with particular reference to recent statistics.
A brief review of the triangular trade with particular reference to recent statistics.
Soweto Uprising Pt1
On 16 June 1976 high-school students in Soweto, South Africa, protested for better education. Police fired teargas and live bullets into the marching students. Part 1: Background to the uprising.
On 16 June 1976 high-school students in Soweto, South Africa, protested for better education. Police fired teargas and live bullets into the marching students. Part 1: Background to the uprising.
Biography: Idi Amin Dada
Idi Amin, who became known as the 'Butcher of Uganda' for his brutal, despotic rule whilst president of Uganda in the 1970s, is possibly the most notorious of all Africa's post-independence dictators. Find out more in this biography.
Idi Amin, who became known as the 'Butcher of Uganda' for his brutal, despotic rule whilst president of Uganda in the 1970s, is possibly the most notorious of all Africa's post-independence dictators. Find out more in this biography.
Bio: Nelson Mandela
A biography of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela.
A biography of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela.
Why-Scamble
Why was Africa so rapidly colonized?
Why was Africa so rapidly colonized?
Apartheid Legislation in South Africa
Descriptions of the main apartheid legislation enacted in South Africa.
Descriptions of the main apartheid legislation enacted in South Africa.
Sharpeville Massacre Pt1
The Origin of South Africa's Human Rights Day
The Origin of South Africa's Human Rights Day
When Did Apartheid End?
Unsure when Apartheid ended in South Africa? Find the answer in this Apartheid FAQ.
Unsure when Apartheid ended in South Africa? Find the answer in this Apartheid FAQ.
Africa Countries Not Colonized
There are two countries in Africa which are considered to never have been colonized. The truth, however, is much more complex and open to debate.
There are two countries in Africa which are considered to never have been colonized. The truth, however, is much more complex and open to debate.
Steve Biko
A short biography of Steve Biko, founder and martyr of the Black Consciousness movement in South Africa.
A short biography of Steve Biko, founder and martyr of the Black Consciousness movement in South Africa.
SA National Holidays
The significance of South Africa's national holidays.
The significance of South Africa's national holidays.
Apartheid, When Did it Start?
Unsure when Apartheid started in South Africa? Find the answer in this Apartheid FAQ.
Unsure when Apartheid started in South Africa? Find the answer in this Apartheid FAQ.
Images of African Slavery and the Slave Trade
A Gallery of Images of African Slavery and the Slave Trade
A Gallery of Images of African Slavery and the Slave Trade
Chronological List of African Independence
A Chronological List of Independence Dates for Africa. Country Independence Date Prior ruling country
A Chronological List of Independence Dates for Africa. Country Independence Date Prior ruling country
Quotes: Steve Biko
A selection of quotes by Steve Biko
A selection of quotes by Steve Biko
Quotes: Nelson Mandela
A selection of quotes by Nelson Mandela
A selection of quotes by Nelson Mandela
Trade Across the Sahara
Between the 11th and 15th centuries West Africa was a major trading region, exporting goods to Europe, Arabia, India, and China across the Sahara Desert.
Between the 11th and 15th centuries West Africa was a major trading region, exporting goods to Europe, Arabia, India, and China across the Sahara Desert.
Kenyatta Bio #1
First president of Kenya and prominent independence leader. Born into dominant Kikuyu culture, Kenyatta became its most famous interpreter of Kikuyu traditions through his book Facing Mount Kenya. Part 1 of his biography, from his early days to his political awakening.
First president of Kenya and prominent independence leader. Born into dominant Kikuyu culture, Kenyatta became its most famous interpreter of Kikuyu traditions through his book Facing Mount Kenya. Part 1 of his biography, from his early days to his political awakening.
Southern African Independence
A chronology of colonization and independence.: south west africa dutch east indies walvis bay gold ivory africa independence
A chronology of colonization and independence.: south west africa dutch east indies walvis bay gold ivory africa independence
History of Kenya
A brief introduction to the history of Kenya from the time of early humans to the present day.
A brief introduction to the history of Kenya from the time of early humans to the present day.
Apartheid FAQ -- Common Questions About South Africa's Apartheid Era
What was Apartheid? Find the answer in this FAQ.: apartheid government racial segregation union of south africa geographical boundaries afrikaans word
What was Apartheid? Find the answer in this FAQ.: apartheid government racial segregation union of south africa geographical boundaries afrikaans word
What is Pan-Africanism
How has Pan-Africanism developed over the last couple of centuries into a socio-political movement?
How has Pan-Africanism developed over the last couple of centuries into a socio-political movement?
Soweto Uprising Pt2
On 16 June 1976 high-school students in Soweto, South Africa, protested for better education. Police fired teargas and live bullets into the marching students. Part 2: Students organize a protest.
On 16 June 1976 high-school students in Soweto, South Africa, protested for better education. Police fired teargas and live bullets into the marching students. Part 2: Students organize a protest.
Political Institutions
What are Political Institutions?
What are Political Institutions?
Slavery in Africa
Types of Slavery in Africa - What Kinds of Slavery Existed in Africa?
Types of Slavery in Africa - What Kinds of Slavery Existed in Africa?
Ubuntu
What does Ubuntu mean? Find the answer to what Ubuntu means in this African History Glossary
What does Ubuntu mean? Find the answer to what Ubuntu means in this African History Glossary
ECOWAS
What is the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS?
What is the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS?
Islam Role African Slavery #1
When Africans talk of slavery they inevitably mean the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Is this a true representation of the practice in Africa?
When Africans talk of slavery they inevitably mean the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Is this a true representation of the practice in Africa?
What was Ujamaa
What was Ujamaa and how did Nyerere's social and economic policy affect Tanzania in the 1960s and 70s?
What was Ujamaa and how did Nyerere's social and economic policy affect Tanzania in the 1960s and 70s?
African Slavery 101
Although slavery has been practiced for almost the whole of recorded history, the vast numbers involved in the African slave trade has left a legacy which can not be ignored.
Although slavery has been practiced for almost the whole of recorded history, the vast numbers involved in the African slave trade has left a legacy which can not be ignored.
Idi Amin Quotes
A selection of quotes by Idi Amin Dada, president of Uganda from 25 January 1971 to 13 April 1979.
A selection of quotes by Idi Amin Dada, president of Uganda from 25 January 1971 to 13 April 1979.
Mau Mau Timeline
The Mau Mau were a militant African nationalist movement active in Kenya during the 1950s whose main aim was to remove British rule and European settlers from the country.
The Mau Mau were a militant African nationalist movement active in Kenya during the 1950s whose main aim was to remove British rule and European settlers from the country.
Colors of Ancient Egypt
Color in Ancient Egypt
Color in Ancient Egypt
Tutankhamun: The Boy Pharaoh
Be amazed at the treasures discovered in the tomb of the most famous Ancient Egyptian pharaoh, Tutankhamun. His was the first tomb found still containing treasure.
Be amazed at the treasures discovered in the tomb of the most famous Ancient Egyptian pharaoh, Tutankhamun. His was the first tomb found still containing treasure.
Apartheid 101
From the Afrikaans word meaning 'separation' Apartheid was a social philosophy which enforced racial, social, and economic segregation on the people of South Africa. Find out more...
From the Afrikaans word meaning 'separation' Apartheid was a social philosophy which enforced racial, social, and economic segregation on the people of South Africa. Find out more...
New Names in South Africa
Since the end of apartheid, a number of town and geographical names in South Africa have changed. Here's a list of them.
Since the end of apartheid, a number of town and geographical names in South Africa have changed. Here's a list of them.
White Area 1976
An apartheid notice on a beach in 1976 near Cape Town, denoting the area for whites only.
An apartheid notice on a beach in 1976 near Cape Town, denoting the area for whites only.
Adinkra Symbology and its Origins
The Origin and Meaning of Adinkra Symbols.: adinkra symbols traditional cloths africanhistory akan symbols abstract shapes
The Origin and Meaning of Adinkra Symbols.: adinkra symbols traditional cloths africanhistory akan symbols abstract shapes
Morocco History
A potted history of Morocco.
A potted history of Morocco.
BCM
What was the Black Consciousness Movement (BCM)?
What was the Black Consciousness Movement (BCM)?
Rwandan Genocide
A Selection of Quotes About The Rwandan Genocide.
A Selection of Quotes About The Rwandan Genocide.
Origins Atlantic Slave Trade
Portuguese exploration and trade: 1450-1500.
Portuguese exploration and trade: 1450-1500.
Plans of Slave Decks, Slave Ship Brookes
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Plans of Slave Decks, Slave Ship Brookes
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Plans of Slave Decks, Slave Ship Brookes
Population Registration Act
The Population Registration Act required South Africans to be identified and registered as belonging to one of four distinct racial groups. Find out more...
The Population Registration Act required South Africans to be identified and registered as belonging to one of four distinct racial groups. Find out more...
History of Mali #1
A brief introduction to the history of Mali from the time of early humans to the present day.
A brief introduction to the history of Mali from the time of early humans to the present day.
Women's Anti Pass Campaign
What happened when the South African government tried to force women to carry passes.
What happened when the South African government tried to force women to carry passes.
Biography: Chief Albert Luthuli
A biography of Chief Albert Luthuli, Africa's first winner of the Nobel Prize for Peace and president of the ANC until his death (under mysterious circumstances) in 1967.
A biography of Chief Albert Luthuli, Africa's first winner of the Nobel Prize for Peace and president of the ANC until his death (under mysterious circumstances) in 1967.
How Many Slaves Were Taken
Information on how many slaves were shipped from Africa across the Atlantic to the Americas during the sixteenth century can only be estimated as very few records exist for this period. But from the seventeenth century onwards, increasingly accurate records, such as ship manifests, are available.
Information on how many slaves were shipped from Africa across the Atlantic to the Americas during the sixteenth century can only be estimated as very few records exist for this period. But from the seventeenth century onwards, increasingly accurate records, such as ship manifests, are available.
Kingdom of Kush
What was the Kingdom of Kush?
What was the Kingdom of Kush?
School Enrollment in SA
Data on School Enrollment for Blacks and Whites in South Africa in 1982.
Data on School Enrollment for Blacks and Whites in South Africa in 1982.
Explorers of Africa
Over the centuries, explorers have found the allure of the unknown reaches of Africa irresistible. Find out who was who, where they went, and when.
Over the centuries, explorers have found the allure of the unknown reaches of Africa irresistible. Find out who was who, where they went, and when.
History of Ghana #1
A brief introduction to the history of Ghana from the time of early humans to the present day. Part 1 - Early Kingdoms to Independence
A brief introduction to the history of Ghana from the time of early humans to the present day. Part 1 - Early Kingdoms to Independence
Quotes - Bantu Education
Bantu Education, the separate and limited experience encountered by non-whites in South Africa when pursuing an education, was a cornerstone of the apartheid philosophy. The following quotes illustrate the diverse viewpoints about Bantu Education from both sides of the anti-Apartheid struggle.
Bantu Education, the separate and limited experience encountered by non-whites in South Africa when pursuing an education, was a cornerstone of the apartheid philosophy. The following quotes illustrate the diverse viewpoints about Bantu Education from both sides of the anti-Apartheid struggle.
What Was the Mfecane?
A explanation of the term Mfecane and why the subject is controversial.
A explanation of the term Mfecane and why the subject is controversial.
Kenyatta Quotes #1
A Selection of Quotes by Jomo Kenyatta
A Selection of Quotes by Jomo Kenyatta
Africa's 100 Best Books of the 20th Century
In February 2002 a list of Africa's Top 100 books was announced. Find out why.
In February 2002 a list of Africa's Top 100 books was announced. Find out why.
Slavery in the Cape Colony
Many South Africans are the descendants of slaves brought to the Cape Colony from 1653 until 1822. Follow the main events in this period of South Africa's history in this timeline.
Many South Africans are the descendants of slaves brought to the Cape Colony from 1653 until 1822. Follow the main events in this period of South Africa's history in this timeline.
Apartheid Signs Image Gallery
A gallery of images of Apartheid Era Signs from the mid 1950s to late 1970s.
A gallery of images of Apartheid Era Signs from the mid 1950s to late 1970s.
Union Of South Africa
The politicking behind the scenes for the formation of the Union of South Africa allowed the foundations of Apartheid to be laid.
The politicking behind the scenes for the formation of the Union of South Africa allowed the foundations of Apartheid to be laid.
Egypt
A brief history of the colonization and independence of Egypt
A brief history of the colonization and independence of Egypt
History of Cameroon #1
A brief introduction to the history of Cameroon from the time of early humans to the present day.
A brief introduction to the history of Cameroon from the time of early humans to the present day.
Short Biography: Walter Max Ulyate Sisulu
Walter Max Ulyate Sisulu Influential anti-Apartheid activist and co-founder of the African National Congress
Walter Max Ulyate Sisulu Influential anti-Apartheid activist and co-founder of the African National Congress
Timeline: The Suez Crisis
Timeline for the Suez Canal Crisis: suez canal zone hassan el banna son farouk caliph of islam king farouk
Timeline for the Suez Canal Crisis: suez canal zone hassan el banna son farouk caliph of islam king farouk
History of Liberia #1
A brief introduction to the history of Liberia from the time of early humans to the present day. Part 1 –Colonization to Civil War
A brief introduction to the history of Liberia from the time of early humans to the present day. Part 1 –Colonization to Civil War
Sonni Ali
West African monarch who ruled Songhai from 1464 to 1492, expanding a small kingdom along the Niger River into one of medieval Africa's greatest empires.
West African monarch who ruled Songhai from 1464 to 1492, expanding a small kingdom along the Niger River into one of medieval Africa's greatest empires.
Group Areas Act
The Group Areas Act No 41 of 1950 forced physical separation between races by creating different residential areas for different races. Find out more…
The Group Areas Act No 41 of 1950 forced physical separation between races by creating different residential areas for different races. Find out more…
Robben Island
A short history of island that housed the most notorious prison of the South African apartheid regime.
A short history of island that housed the most notorious prison of the South African apartheid regime.
General Act of the Berlin Conference on West Africa
Full Text of the General Act of the Berlin Conference on West Africa as signed on 26 February 1885
Full Text of the General Act of the Berlin Conference on West Africa as signed on 26 February 1885
Indigenous African Slavery
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Indigenous African Slavery
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Indigenous African Slavery
Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade: Origins of Slaves
Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade: Origins of Slaves Details of where slaves were taken from Africa and how
Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade: Origins of Slaves Details of where slaves were taken from Africa and how
Nyerere Quotes #1
A Selection of Quotes by Julius Kambarage Nyerere
A Selection of Quotes by Julius Kambarage Nyerere
Bio: Mungo Park
Mungo Park, a Scottish surgeon and explorer, was sent out by the 'Association for Promoting the Discovery of the Interior of Africa' to discover the course of the River Niger. Having achieved a degree of fame from his first trip, carried out alone and on foot, he returned to Africa with a party of 40 Europeans, all of whom lost their lives in the adventure.
Mungo Park, a Scottish surgeon and explorer, was sent out by the 'Association for Promoting the Discovery of the Interior of Africa' to discover the course of the River Niger. Having achieved a degree of fame from his first trip, carried out alone and on foot, he returned to Africa with a party of 40 Europeans, all of whom lost their lives in the adventure.
Indigenous African Slavers Traveling From the Interior
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Indigenous African slavers Traveling From the Interior
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Indigenous African slavers Traveling From the Interior
Timeline of the Algerian War of Independence
A chronology of key events in Algeria's War of Independence -- From French Colonization to the End of the 'Battle of Algiers'.
A chronology of key events in Algeria's War of Independence -- From French Colonization to the End of the 'Battle of Algiers'.
Tanzania History
A potted history of Tanzania.
A potted history of Tanzania.
Julius Nyerere
A Biography of Julius Kambarage Nyerere, the father of Tanzania.
A Biography of Julius Kambarage Nyerere, the father of Tanzania.
Treason Trial
In 1956, in response to the adoption of the Freedom Charter at the Congress of the People, the Apartheid government in South Africa arrested a total 156 people for high treason. The penalty for this was death.
In 1956, in response to the adoption of the Freedom Charter at the Congress of the People, the Apartheid government in South Africa arrested a total 156 people for high treason. The penalty for this was death.
Abolition of Passes Act 1952
Blacks (Abolition of Passes and Co-ordination of Documents) Act No 67 of 1952 required all black persons over the age of 16 to carry a reference (or pass) book at all times. Find out more...
Blacks (Abolition of Passes and Co-ordination of Documents) Act No 67 of 1952 required all black persons over the age of 16 to carry a reference (or pass) book at all times. Find out more...
Inspection of an African Slave
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Inspection of an African Slave
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Inspection of an African Slave
São Tomé and the Slave Trade
São Tomé is considered to be a principal port in the export of slaves across the Atlantic, this is, however, only part of the story.
São Tomé is considered to be a principal port in the export of slaves across the Atlantic, this is, however, only part of the story.
Soweto Uprising 1976 Image Gallery
A gallery of images of the 16 June 1975 Soweto Uprising.
A gallery of images of the 16 June 1975 Soweto Uprising.
Major Ethnic Groups of Kenya
Maps showing the locations of major ethnic groups in Kenya.
Maps showing the locations of major ethnic groups in Kenya.
History of Swaziland #1
A brief introduction to the history of Swaziland from the time of early humans to the present day.
A brief introduction to the history of Swaziland from the time of early humans to the present day.
History of Sudan #1
A brief introduction to the history of Sudan from the time of early humans to the present day. Part 1 - Kingdoms to Independence
A brief introduction to the history of Sudan from the time of early humans to the present day. Part 1 - Kingdoms to Independence
Young African Boys Captured for Slave Trade
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Young African Boys Captured for Slave Trade
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Young African Boys Captured for Slave Trade
Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland
The Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland lasted for 10 years, part of Britain's approach to independence in Africa. Find out more about the federation and why it ended.
The Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland lasted for 10 years, part of Britain's approach to independence in Africa. Find out more about the federation and why it ended.
Diagram of the Slave Ship Brookes
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Diagram of the Slave Ship Brookes
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Diagram of the Slave Ship Brookes
Timeline of Apartheid History: 1912 to 1959
A Timeline of Key Apartheid Events from 1912 to 1959.
A Timeline of Key Apartheid Events from 1912 to 1959.
Testing an African Slave For Sickness
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Testing an African Slave For Sickness
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Testing an African Slave For Sickness
African Captives Being Sent Into Slavery
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: African Captives Being Sent Into Slavery
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: African Captives Being Sent Into Slavery
Idi Amin Timeline
A Timeline of Key Events in the Life of Idi Amin Dada.
A Timeline of Key Events in the Life of Idi Amin Dada.
Freedom Charter
Freedom Charter
Freedom Charter
The History of Islam in Africa
The Islamic faith and Muslims have played a crucial role in the development of Africa, not only in North Africa and West Africa where it is still the dominant religion, but also in East Africa, where its dominance decreases as one moves south, and in Southern Africa, where it was introduced through slaves and political exiles and is most prominent today in the cities of Durban and Cape Town.
The Islamic faith and Muslims have played a crucial role in the development of Africa, not only in North Africa and West Africa where it is still the dominant religion, but also in East Africa, where its dominance decreases as one moves south, and in Southern Africa, where it was introduced through slaves and political exiles and is most prominent today in the cities of Durban and Cape Town.
Tanzania Timeline -- Timeline of the History of Tanzania
A chronology of key events in Tanzania's history: vasco da gama john hanning speke lake tanganika lettow vorbeck german protectorate
A chronology of key events in Tanzania's history: vasco da gama john hanning speke lake tanganika lettow vorbeck german protectorate
An Atlas of African Independence
By the mid 1960's the majority of African states were free from colonial rule. Read more about each country's story in this Atlas of Independence.
By the mid 1960's the majority of African states were free from colonial rule. Read more about each country's story in this Atlas of Independence.
Kenya Timeline -- Timeline of Kenya from Independence to Present Day
A chronology of key events in Kenya's history: jomo kenyatta timeline chronology anglican archbishop africanhistory odinga
A chronology of key events in Kenya's history: jomo kenyatta timeline chronology anglican archbishop africanhistory odinga
Female East African Slave
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Female East African Slave
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Female East African Slave
WWII Timeline: June 1940
When Italy declared war against Britain and France in June 1940 it seemed inevitable that the conflict would come to Africa – Italy wanted an empire, and it was only on the African continent that it would be able to achieve such conquest. But even with Britain's pre-emptive forays into Libya, the war was slow to start…
When Italy declared war against Britain and France in June 1940 it seemed inevitable that the conflict would come to Africa – Italy wanted an empire, and it was only on the African continent that it would be able to achieve such conquest. But even with Britain's pre-emptive forays into Libya, the war was slow to start…
Cape Coast Castle, Gold Coast
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Cape Coast Castle, Gold Coast
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Cape Coast Castle, Gold Coast
Exercising Slaves on a Trans-Atlantic Slave Ship
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Exercising Slaves on a Trans-Atlantic Slave Ship
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Exercising Slaves on a Trans-Atlantic Slave Ship
Pre-Colonial Cultures in South Africa: San and Khoikhoi
Two thousand years ago the first of several waves colonists swept into South Africa. In the first of these waves, the pastoralist Khoikhoi moved down into the western and southern coastal regions - pushing the hunter-gatherer San inland.
Two thousand years ago the first of several waves colonists swept into South Africa. In the first of these waves, the pastoralist Khoikhoi moved down into the western and southern coastal regions - pushing the hunter-gatherer San inland.
A Slave Barracoon
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: A Slave Barracoon
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: A Slave Barracoon
"Wind of Change" Speech
Made to the South Africa Parliament on 3 February 1960: It is, as I have said, a special privilege for
Made to the South Africa Parliament on 3 February 1960: It is, as I have said, a special privilege for
Hastings Kamuzu Banda Quotes
A selection of quotes by Hastings Kamuzu Banda, first president of Malawi.
A selection of quotes by Hastings Kamuzu Banda, first president of Malawi.
Léopold Sédar Senghor
Léopold Sédar Senghor (1906 - 2001), first president of Senegal, internationally acclaimed poet, writer and statesman.
Léopold Sédar Senghor (1906 - 2001), first president of Senegal, internationally acclaimed poet, writer and statesman.
"Wind of Change" speech
What was the "Wind of Change" speech? The "Wind of Change" speech was made by the British Prime Minister
What was the "Wind of Change" speech? The "Wind of Change" speech was made by the British Prime Minister
Menes: First Pharaoh of Egypt?
According to Ancient Egyptian history Menes was the founder of the unified Egyptian state which combined Upper and Lower Egypt.
According to Ancient Egyptian history Menes was the founder of the unified Egyptian state which combined Upper and Lower Egypt.
A Slaver's Canoe
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: A Slaver's Canoe
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: A Slaver's Canoe
Slave Decks on the Slave Bark Wildfire
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Slave Decks on the Slave Bark Wildfire
Image of African Slavery and the Slave Trade: Slave Decks on the Slave Bark Wildfire
Soweto Uprising Roadblock - June 1976
Rioters in Soweto use cars as roadblocks during unrest.
Rioters in Soweto use cars as roadblocks during unrest.
Timbuktu
Timbuktu is widely used to describe a place extremely far away and regarded by many as a myth. In reality it's a city in Mali, West Africa, of such great historical importance that in 1988 it was designated a World Heritage Site.
Timbuktu is widely used to describe a place extremely far away and regarded by many as a myth. In reality it's a city in Mali, West Africa, of such great historical importance that in 1988 it was designated a World Heritage Site.
History of Mauritius
A brief introduction to the history of Mauritius from the time of early colonization to the present day.
A brief introduction to the history of Mauritius from the time of early colonization to the present day.
South African Apartheid Era Identity Numbers -- What were Apartheid Era Identity Numbers
South African Apartheid Era Identity Numbers How the Apartheid Era Identity Number Recorded Racial Categories
South African Apartheid Era Identity Numbers How the Apartheid Era Identity Number Recorded Racial Categories
RwandanGenocide01
Why was there such strong antagonism between the Hutu and Tutsi in Rwanda? What Role did European colonization play? Was the 1994 genocide the first outbreak of violence? Find out more about the origins of the Rwandan Genocide.
Why was there such strong antagonism between the Hutu and Tutsi in Rwanda? What Role did European colonization play? Was the 1994 genocide the first outbreak of violence? Find out more about the origins of the Rwandan Genocide.
History of Zimbabwe #2
A brief introduction to the history of Zimbabwe from the time of early humans to the present day. Part 1 - UDI to Independence
A brief introduction to the history of Zimbabwe from the time of early humans to the present day. Part 1 - UDI to Independence
Bio: Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf
Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, described by some of her rivals as an Americo-Liberian, the descendant of Liberia's ex-American-slave colonists, has reached the pinnacle o her political career. Awaiting the results of an investigation into alleged (by her main political rival George Weah) election fraud, Johnson-Sirleaf could become Africa's first elected woman president. Find out more…
Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, described by some of her rivals as an Americo-Liberian, the descendant of Liberia's ex-American-slave colonists, has reached the pinnacle o her political career. Awaiting the results of an investigation into alleged (by her main political rival George Weah) election fraud, Johnson-Sirleaf could become Africa's first elected woman president. Find out more…
Chad History
A potted history of Chad.
A potted history of Chad.
Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs: Viscera Coffin
A gallery of artifacts from the Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs Exhibition: Viscera Coffin.
A gallery of artifacts from the Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs Exhibition: Viscera Coffin.
Commonwealth of Nations
A list of when various African countries joined the Commonwealth of Nations.
A list of when various African countries joined the Commonwealth of Nations.
Who Supported Apartheid?
Unsure who supported Apartheid in South Africa? Find the answer in this Apartheid FAQ.
Unsure who supported Apartheid in South Africa? Find the answer in this Apartheid FAQ.
Apartheid: How Did the NP Win?
Unsure how the Apartheid regime came into power? Find the answer in this Apartheid FAQ.
Unsure how the Apartheid regime came into power? Find the answer in this Apartheid FAQ.
Black (or Natives) Land Act
Under the Black (Natives) Land Act Blacks were no longer be able to own, or even rent, land outside of designated reserves. Find out more…
Under the Black (Natives) Land Act Blacks were no longer be able to own, or even rent, land outside of designated reserves. Find out more…
Aerial view of Soweto Uprising - June 1976
Over 100 people were killed and many more injured on 16 June 1976 in Soweto, South Africa, following anti-apartheid protests. Students set fire to symbols of apartheid, such as government buildings, schools, municipal beerhalls, and liquor stores.
Over 100 people were killed and many more injured on 16 June 1976 in Soweto, South Africa, following anti-apartheid protests. Students set fire to symbols of apartheid, such as government buildings, schools, municipal beerhalls, and liquor stores.
Where in Africa is Zambia?
A map showing the location of the Republic of Zambia in Africa.
A map showing the location of the Republic of Zambia in Africa.
More Quotes: Nelson Mandela
A selection of quotes by Nelson Mandela
A selection of quotes by Nelson Mandela
West African Independence
A chronology of colonization and independence.: french west africa french protectorate grand popo africa independence portuguese guinea
A chronology of colonization and independence.: french west africa french protectorate grand popo africa independence portuguese guinea
History of Benin
A brief introduction to the history of Benin from the time of early humans to the present day.
A brief introduction to the history of Benin from the time of early humans to the present day.
Sharpeville Massacre Pt2
The events of the day
The events of the day
Anwar-el-Sadat-Bio
Renowned Egyptian statesman and soldier, served as president of Egypt from 1970 to his assassination in 1981. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his part in the negotiations for the Egyptian-Israeli Peace Accord of 1978. Find out more about his life.
Renowned Egyptian statesman and soldier, served as president of Egypt from 1970 to his assassination in 1981. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his part in the negotiations for the Egyptian-Israeli Peace Accord of 1978. Find out more about his life.
DF Malan
A biography of DF Malan, first prime minister of South Africa Apartheid regime
A biography of DF Malan, first prime minister of South Africa Apartheid regime
A Brief History of Zambia
A brief introduction to the history of Zambia from the time of early humans to the present day.
A brief introduction to the history of Zambia from the time of early humans to the present day.
Robben Island Prison Museum
Gallery of images of Robben Island Prison Museum, World Heritage Site and Apartheid era prison.
Gallery of images of Robben Island Prison Museum, World Heritage Site and Apartheid era prison.
Kenyatta Bio #2
First president of Kenya and prominent independence leader. Born into dominant Kikuyu culture, Kenyatta became its most famous interpreter of Kikuyu traditions through his book Facing Mount Kenya. Part 2 of his biography, from his political awakening to the Mau Mau Rebellion.
First president of Kenya and prominent independence leader. Born into dominant Kikuyu culture, Kenyatta became its most famous interpreter of Kikuyu traditions through his book Facing Mount Kenya. Part 2 of his biography, from his political awakening to the Mau Mau Rebellion.
Crossroads
South African police and rioters in South Africa's Cape Town informal settlement of Crossroads clashed over an attempt to move residents to the new Township of Kayelitsha.
South African police and rioters in South Africa's Cape Town informal settlement of Crossroads clashed over an attempt to move residents to the new Township of Kayelitsha.
Chris Hani Bio
A short biography of Chris Hani, South African political activist, chief-of-staff of Umkhonto we Sizwe, and Secretary-General of the South African Communist Party, assassinated in April 1993.
A short biography of Chris Hani, South African political activist, chief-of-staff of Umkhonto we Sizwe, and Secretary-General of the South African Communist Party, assassinated in April 1993.
Nok Culture
Considered the oldest recognisable pre-colonial society in sub-Saharan Africa, the Nok Culture is exemplified by its magnificent terracotta sculptures and the development of iron working. Find out more about this ancient African civilization.
Considered the oldest recognisable pre-colonial society in sub-Saharan Africa, the Nok Culture is exemplified by its magnificent terracotta sculptures and the development of iron working. Find out more about this ancient African civilization.
Joe Slovo Bio
Joe Slovo, anti-Apartheid activist, was one of the founders of Umkhonto weSizwe (MK), the armed wing of the ANC, and was general secretary of the South African Communist Party during the 1980s.
Joe Slovo, anti-Apartheid activist, was one of the founders of Umkhonto weSizwe (MK), the armed wing of the ANC, and was general secretary of the South African Communist Party during the 1980s.
Côte d'Ivoire History
A potted history of Côte d'Ivoire
A potted history of Côte d'Ivoire
Apartheid Beach 1979
Sign on a Cape Town beach in 1979 reserves it for white people only: "WHITE PERSONS ONLY This beach and
Sign on a Cape Town beach in 1979 reserves it for white people only: "WHITE PERSONS ONLY This beach and
The Afrikaans Medium Decree
The decree that Afrikaans had to be used as a language of instruction in schools contributed to the 16 June 1976 Soweto uprising in South Africa.
The decree that Afrikaans had to be used as a language of instruction in schools contributed to the 16 June 1976 Soweto uprising in South Africa.
Demonstrators at Soweto Uprising - June 1976
Demonstrators in the streets during the Soweto uprising, South Africa, June 1976. By the end of the third day of rioting, the Minister of Bantu Education closed all schools in Soweto.
Demonstrators in the streets during the Soweto uprising, South Africa, June 1976. By the end of the third day of rioting, the Minister of Bantu Education closed all schools in Soweto.
Slave Laws in South Africa
It is a popular misconception that slavery in South Africa was mild compared to America and the European colonies in the Far East. This is not so, and punishments meted out could be very harsh.
It is a popular misconception that slavery in South Africa was mild compared to America and the European colonies in the Far East. This is not so, and punishments meted out could be very harsh.
Army and Police at Roadblock during Soweto Uprising - June 1976
Police were sent in to form a line in front of the marchers -- they ordered the crowd to disperse. When they refused, police dogs were released, then teargas was fired. Students responded by throwing stones and bottles at the police. Anti-riot vehicles and members of the Anti-Urban Terrorism Unit arrived. Army helicopters dropped teargas on gatherings of students. Roadblocks were set up at all entrances to Soweto.
Police were sent in to form a line in front of the marchers -- they ordered the crowd to disperse. When they refused, police dogs were released, then teargas was fired. Students responded by throwing stones and bottles at the police. Anti-riot vehicles and members of the Anti-Urban Terrorism Unit arrived. Army helicopters dropped teargas on gatherings of students. Roadblocks were set up at all entrances to Soweto.
Pass Laws
What were the Pass Laws in Apartheid era South Africa?
What were the Pass Laws in Apartheid era South Africa?
History of Eritrea #1
A brief introduction to the history of Eritrea from the time of early humans to the present day. Part 1 - Warlords to Independence
A brief introduction to the history of Eritrea from the time of early humans to the present day. Part 1 - Warlords to Independence
Gukurahundi
What was the Gukurahundi?
What was the Gukurahundi?
Road Sign 1956
A fairly common road sign around Johannesburg in 1956: "Caution Beware Of Natives"
A fairly common road sign around Johannesburg in 1956: "Caution Beware Of Natives"
Soweto Uprising Casualties - June 1976
Injured people waiting for treatment after the riots in Soweto, , South Africa. The rioting started after police opened fire on a march by black students, protesting against the use of Afrikaans in lessons. The official death toll was 23; others put it as high as 200. Many hundreds of people were injured.
Injured people waiting for treatment after the riots in Soweto, , South Africa. The rioting started after police opened fire on a march by black students, protesting against the use of Afrikaans in lessons. The official death toll was 23; others put it as high as 200. Many hundreds of people were injured.
History of Tunisia
A brief introduction to the history of Tunisia from the time of early humans to the present day.
A brief introduction to the history of Tunisia from the time of early humans to the present day.
Bio: Tom Mboya
Thomas Mboya was a Kenyan trade unionist and statesman. Earmarked as Jomo Kenyatta's successor, Mboya was assassinated six years into independence, sparking tribal unrest between Kenyatta's Kikuyu supporters and Mboya's Luo.
Thomas Mboya was a Kenyan trade unionist and statesman. Earmarked as Jomo Kenyatta's successor, Mboya was assassinated six years into independence, sparking tribal unrest between Kenyatta's Kikuyu supporters and Mboya's Luo.