AFST202

This course gives a general overview of sub-Saharan African cultures, societies, and entities before the modern colonial period. The course covers Africa from the early Common Era (200 AD Rise of Ancient Ghana, Ancient Aksum & the decline of Ancient Meroe), to the second half of the l9th century (I880 AD The West scramble for Africa). Students will be introduced to medieval civilizations, such as Mali, Ethiopia, and Great Zimbabwe, but sub-Saharan Africa is diverse and thus the focus on a particular region will depend on the expertise of the instructor. Finally, this course will make the essential
cultural and physical connections with black Africa and its African Diaspora to the Americas, Caribbean, and Middle East. (4 credits) There is at least one outside field trip. Students will be expected to cover the cost of the field trip.