History Extra podcast Why Africa's history is more than just the slave trade
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Mar 24, 2025 Luke Pepera, author of "Motherland: A Journey through 500,000 Years of African Culture and Identity," redefines African history beyond the transatlantic slave trade. He highlights Africa's rich cultural tapestry, showcasing its significant contributions to global civilization. The conversation delves into oral traditions, emphasizing their evolution from griots to contemporary rap battles. Pepera also discusses the dynamics of female-led societies, challenging stereotypes and underlining the importance of diverse narratives in understanding Africa's complex past.
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Warped Understanding of African History
- Our understanding of African history is warped by a focus on the last 300 years, encompassing the slave trade and colonialism.
- This focus portrays Africans primarily as victims, obscuring the diverse relationships and rich history that predate this period.
Beyond Written Documentation
- Western historical understanding often prioritizes written documentation.
- African history is recorded through diverse means like songs, stories, and material culture, requiring a broader approach.
Ancestral Veneration in the Akan Culture
- Luke Pepera shares an anecdote about his grandfather and the Akan belief that ancestors reside in stools.
- This illustrates the concept of ancestral veneration and the belief in the continued presence of those who came before.
