HAP 136 - Civilization Reclaimed - African-Centered Thought

Chancellor Williams' 'The Destruction of Black Civilization' is a groundbreaking work that took 16 years to research and compile. It challenges the conventional view that black people have always been at the bottom of world society by highlighting factors such as nature, imperialism, and stolen legacies. The book offers a new perspective on African history, focusing on the experiences of Africans themselves rather than those of Arabs and Europeans in Africa.

Between the World and Me is a personal and literary exploration of America's racial history. Written as a series of letters to his 15-year-old son, Samori, Ta-Nehisi Coates reflects on his own experiences growing up in Baltimore, his education at Howard University, and his career as a journalist. The book delves into the realities of being Black in America, including the historical and ongoing impacts of slavery, segregation, police brutality, and mass incarceration. Coates shares personal anecdotes and historical insights to prepare his son for the challenges he will face as a Black man in America, while also offering a broader critique of American society and its treatment of Black bodies. The book is a powerful and emotional exploration of identity, history, and the struggle for racial justice.

George G.M. James's "Stolen Legacy" argues that ancient Greek philosophy was derived from ancient Egyptian thought, which was itself of African origin. The book challenges traditional historical narratives and aims to highlight the contributions of African civilizations to Western thought. It's considered pseudo-history by many mainstream scholars due to its controversial interpretations and lack of substantial evidence. However, it remains influential within certain circles for its attempt to reclaim African intellectual heritage. The book's impact lies in its contribution to discussions about cultural appropriation and the rewriting of history.