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Semester Blog Write Up (By: Alyssa Olson)

This semester in African Studies has been a transformative experience, deepening my understanding of the complexities, struggles, and triumphs of African and African Diasporic peoples. The course challenged me to confront historical narratives, explore cultural resilience, and engage with the ongoing impact of systemic inequities.

We began by exploring Africa’s rich history during the Middle Ages, focusing on the powerful empires of Ghana, Mali, and Songhay. These civilizations were centers of trade, culture, and intellectual achievement, dispelling reductive narratives of a monolithic Africa. Figures like Mansa Musa demonstrated Africa’s wealth and global influence, while discussions on the Moors highlighted the knowledge exchanges that connected Africa to Europe and the Islamic world during the Bright Ages. This exploration provided a foundation for understanding Africa as a vibrant and dynamic contributor to global history.

Religion emerged as a dual force in Africa’s history, offering spiritual frameworks while also becoming a tool for colonization and subjugation. Christianity and Islam reshaped African societies, often exploiting them in the process. These discussions framed our understanding of how colonizing forces contributed to Africa’s population decline and economic exploitation, particularly through the Arab slave trade and the Indian Ocean African slave trade.

One of the most emotionally charged parts of the course was our examination of the transatlantic slave trade. The Triangle Slave Trade system exposed the brutal realities of human exploitation, including the dehumanizing "seasoning process" and the pervasive use of sexual violence as a tool of control. Despite these horrors, African resistance persisted. We studied maroon communities and compared resistance efforts across North and South America, gaining insight into the resilience and ingenuity of enslaved Africans. These stories reminded me that even in the face of immense oppression, the human spirit can find ways to fight back and preserve dignity.

African cultural retentions were another recurring theme, showcasing how African identity endured and adapted in new environments. From music and religion to language and cuisine, these cultural elements became powerful symbols of resistance and continuity. Jazz, for example, was traced back to African musical traditions, demonstrating how enslaved Africans reshaped cultural landscapes far beyond their homelands. These discussions inspired me to view cultural expressions not just as artifacts of history but as living, evolving symbols of resilience.

Our exploration of Black economics brought the course into contemporary times, shedding light on systemic inequities and the fight for justice. Readings from Darity, Hamilton, and Gammage revealed the roots of the racial wealth gap and the importance of African-centered economic approaches. These conversations underscored the need for collective solutions to systemic challenges and the power of community-driven initiatives.

Contemporary issues further emphasized the enduring legacies of exploitation. The reality of modern-day slavery in Libya was a stark reminder of how historical patterns persist. The documentary Good Hair by Chris Rock explored how global industries commodify and exploit African identity while simultaneously shaping beauty standards. This intersection of culture and economics deepened my understanding of the systemic pressures faced by African and African-American communities.

Representation in media was another important focus. Films like Birth of a Nation (2016) and A Raisin in the Sun offered nuanced portrayals of African-American struggles and aspirations. These works showed how storytelling can perpetuate harmful stereotypes or serve as a powerful tool for empowerment and social change. Our discussions reminded me of the responsibility media creators have in shaping narratives about African and African-American experiences.

This semester has taught me to approach history and contemporary issues with nuance, to challenge surface-level narratives, and to seek deeper understanding. I’ve come to appreciate the resilience of African and African Diasporic peoples, not just as survivors of historical injustices but as innovators and leaders in shaping global culture. This course has been a journey of unlearning, relearning, and expanding my worldview. I leave with a stronger commitment to justice, a deeper respect for cultural resilience, and immense gratitude for the insights I’ve gained along the way.

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Black Economics Blog Write Up (By: Alyssa Olson)

The racial wealth gap in the United States isn’t just a product of individual financial choices or educational disparities. Instead, it reflects deep, structural inequalities that have evolved over centuries. From my research in African studies, especially through sources like Moore, Darity, and Hamilton's “What We Get Wrong About Closing the Racial Wealth Gap,” and Justin Gammage's work on African-centered economics, it’s clear that closing this gap requires more than encouraging financial literacy or saving strategies. We need to understand and address the systemic barriers that prevent Black communities from building generational wealth.

Moore, Darity, and Hamilton argue that focusing on education and income alone will not close the wealth gap, pointing out that even with higher education, Black individuals often have less wealth than their white counterparts. This insight challenges common narratives about economic success in America. Their work, alongside insights from the Samuel DuBois Cook Center on Social Equity, emphasizes that historical factors, such as exclusion from wealth-building opportunities (like homeownership and access to credit), have kept Black families at an economic disadvantage. The legacy of redlining, discrimination in lending, and employment barriers continues to impact Black communities today, making it clear that economic inequality is a systemic problem, not an individual one.

In Gammage's “African-Centered Economics and Africana Studies,” we see a different perspective on economic solutions. Gammage proposes an African-centered approach to economics that emphasizes collective wealth-building within Black communities, rooted in cultural pride and self-reliance. This model stresses the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses, reinvesting wealth within the community, and creating networks of economic support. By prioritizing community-based approaches over individual economic gain, Gammage’s perspective aligns with Africana studies' focus on community empowerment and resilience.

This idea of collective empowerment also appears in Anderson and Stewart’s Introduction to African American Studies. Chapter Five discusses both individual and community-based economic strategies, stressing the importance of cooperative economics and social solidarity. For Black communities, where resources and opportunities have historically been limited, pooling resources can strengthen financial stability. This approach not only builds wealth but also reinforces community bonds, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and resilience.

A stark reminder of how systemic issues create economic disparities comes through in the video Black Market with Michael K. Williams: The Lean Scene. Williams explores the underground economy, where many Black individuals turn to alternative means of earning a living in response to economic exclusion. This video highlights the difficult choices many face when mainstream economic paths remain inaccessible, reinforcing how deeply structural barriers impact everyday lives. Williams’ documentary underscores the need for legitimate economic opportunities in Black communities, highlighting how marginalization drives people toward high-risk income strategies.

Together, these sources illustrate that economic empowerment in Black communities involves more than just wealth accumulation. It’s about creating systems of support, investing in community wealth, and understanding the historical and structural barriers that maintain the wealth gap. For students and advocates of African studies, these perspectives push us to think critically about how to create equitable opportunities and emphasize the need for policies that address these deep-rooted issues. Black economics, when approached from a community-centered perspective, isn’t just about individual success—it’s about achieving collective prosperity and resilience, creating a future where financial stability is a shared reality.

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A Raisin in the Sun Blog Post (By: Alyssa Olson)

Watching A Raisin in the Sun is like stepping into the lives of the Younger family, where each person’s dreams clash and connect in ways that feel raw and deeply human. This isn’t just a story about a family in the 1950s; it’s about the struggle to hold on to hope and dignity in a world that constantly tries to take it away. In my African studies class, this film has come to mean more than just a dramatic story—it's an emotional journey that reveals the complexities of race, identity, and resilience that African American families have faced for generations.

The film centers around the Younger family’s excitement—and eventual conflict—over a $10,000 life insurance check. Each family member has their own vision of what the money represents. Lena, the mother and heart of the family, dreams of buying a house in a better neighborhood, hoping to fulfill her lifelong wish of giving her family a home they can be proud of. Walter Lee, her son, sees the money as a way to break free from his low-wage job as a chauffeur and launch a business. Beneatha, Walter’s sister, wants to use it to go to medical school and defy expectations by becoming a doctor. Watching them fight and support each other over these dreams is so relatable—it’s easy to see our own families in their arguments, dreams, and sacrifices.

But A Raisin in the Sun is about more than just family dynamics. When the Youngers try to move into a white neighborhood, they face the brutal reality of systemic racism. Rather than welcoming them, the neighborhood tries to buy them out, clearly showing that not everyone believes they deserve the same opportunities. This moment hit hard because it’s not just history—it’s a reality many still experience today, where subtle and not-so-subtle ways of exclusion persist. In my African studies class, we talk a lot about how systemic barriers impact people’s lives, and this scene makes it painfully clear that even a step forward can come with a harsh push back.

What’s inspiring, though, is how the Youngers refuse to let others define them. They stick together and stand up for their right to live wherever they want, rejecting the buyout and showing that self-respect is more valuable than money. It’s an empowering moment that makes you think about the importance of pride, family, and staying true to yourself no matter the obstacles.

The film also dives into identity, especially through Beneatha’s journey of self-discovery. She explores African heritage, questioning the pressures around her and challenging stereotypes. Her character brings up real questions about what it means to belong, both to a family and a cultural identity, while navigating outside expectations. For me, her story highlights the importance of embracing who you are without losing sight of where you come from—a theme that’s central in African studies and resonates personally.

Raisin in the Sun feels like a film that has carved out its own timeless space. Even though it was made over sixty years ago, its messages about family, resilience, and racial inequality are as relevant now as they were then. It’s a story that reminds us of the sacrifices made by generations before us and inspires us to keep pushing forward. In the end, A Raisin in the Sun isn’t just a classic film; it’s a lesson in hope, courage, and the strength that comes from family and self-respect, and I believe its legacy will continue to resonate for years to come.

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Black Gender Blog Write Up (Group #4) By: Alyssa Olson

In "Multidimensionality Is to Masculinities What Intersectionality Is to Feminism," Athena D. Mutua draws a compelling parallel between the concepts of intersectionality in feminism and multidimensionality in masculinity studies. Published in the Nevada Law Journal (Vol. 13, Issue 2, 2013, pp. 341-367), Mutua’s work underscores how traditional views of masculinity have often focused on a single, dominant narrative of male experience—typically centering on white, heterosexual, middle-to-upper-class men. However, this limited scope fails to account for the complex realities that diverse men face. By introducing the concept of multidimensionality, Mutua urges readers to recognize that masculinity, like femininity, cannot be understood through a one-size-fits-all framework. Instead, it is influenced by various intersecting factors, including race, class, sexuality, and cultural background, which collectively shape individual experiences of manhood in unique ways.

Mutua’s argument is a response to traditional studies of masculinity, which often overlook the nuanced and varied experiences of men from marginalized groups. Much like how intersectionality in feminism acknowledges how different identities (such as race, gender, and sexuality) intersect to produce unique forms of oppression or privilege, multidimensionality highlights how men’s experiences of masculinity differ based on intersecting social identities. For instance, the way a Black man experiences masculinity may differ substantially from that of a white man due to the compounded effects of racial discrimination. Similarly, a gay man’s experiences with masculinity may diverge from those of his heterosexual counterparts due to societal attitudes toward sexuality. Through these examples, Mutua emphasizes that masculinity is not a singular experience but a diverse and multifaceted construct.

A key strength of Mutua’s work is her ability to bridge the gap between gender studies and critical race theory, offering a more inclusive view of masculinity that acknowledges marginalized voices. By extending the concept of multidimensionality to masculinity studies, Mutua challenges prevailing norms and encourages a re-evaluation of how male identities are understood in social and legal contexts. Her approach invites scholars to move beyond simplistic portrayals of masculinity, recognizing that the interplay between race, class, sexuality, and other social categories profoundly affects how individuals experience and express their manhood. This shift is crucial for developing a more inclusive and accurate understanding of masculinity that reflects the realities of men from all backgrounds.

Ultimately, Mutua’s article contributes to the broader discourse on gender and social justice by emphasizing the importance of a multidimensional approach to masculinity. Her insights pave the way for future research that explores the complex intersections of identity within masculinity, promoting a more comprehensive and equitable study of male experiences. By reframing masculinity through the lens of multidimensionality, Mutua not only enriches masculinity studies but also reinforces the importance of diverse perspectives in understanding human identity as a whole.

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Black Music Activity Blog Write-Up: Jazz (By: Alyssa Olson)

Jazz, one of the most influential musical genres in American history, has roots deeply entwined with the African American experience and has left a permanent mark on global music. Emerging from the rich cultural tapestry of New Orleans in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, jazz combines African rhythmic traditions, blues, gospel, and European musical elements. Born from the African diaspora’s journey of resilience and self-expression, jazz has evolved into a genre defined by improvisation, emotional depth, and boundary-pushing soundscapes.

The origins of jazz can be traced back to the rhythmic chants, spirituals, and work songs that enslaved Africans brought with them to America. These musical traditions became foundational to early jazz, often expressing both sorrow and hope. Following emancipation, newly freed African Americans created jazz in their communities, using it to voice their narratives and aspirations. New Orleans became the genre’s first major center, where musicians experimented with syncopated rhythms, brass instrumentation, and blues scales. Jazz drew from the Caribbean sounds of nearby regions, ragtime, and the blues, creating a dynamic fusion. Musicians like Louis Armstrong and Jelly Roll Morton pioneered improvisational techniques, giving jazz its iconic swing and syncopation that broke away from European classical norms and set it apart as a wholly unique genre.

The Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s helped solidify jazz’s place in American culture as musicians like Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, and Ella Fitzgerald brought jazz to national attention. During this time, jazz became a voice for African American identity, resilience, and pride. In the decades that followed, jazz continued to evolve—bebop in the 1940s and free jazz in the 1960s each brought new layers of complexity, experimentation, and social commentary. Jazz even became a symbol of freedom and resistance during the Civil Rights Movement, showing its power to inspire and provoke change.

Today, jazz stands as a cultural bridge across the African diaspora, bringing communities together through a shared musical heritage. Its legacy has birthed genres like R&B, soul, and hip-hop, and jazz’s ethos of improvisation and freedom remains a core influence on modern music. Beyond its role as a musical tradition, jazz embodies a profound cultural legacy, marking the creative resilience of African Americans and their contributions to American society.

Video Recommendation: For a deeper dive, The Evolution of Jazz: From Its Origins to Today’s Sounds offers an engaging visual journey, illustrating jazz’s development from its New Orleans roots through its transformation into an international phenomenon.

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Good Hair Blog Write Up (By: Alyssa Olson)

Chris Rock’s documentary Good Hair (2009) delves into the complexities surrounding African American hair, exploring its cultural significance and the social implications tied to beauty standards in the Black community. Through humor and insightful commentary, Rock unravels the deeply rooted perceptions of hair, exposing how these perceptions are shaped by societal norms, historical contexts, and personal experiences.

The film opens with Rock’s daughter, Lola, asking him about her hair. Her innocent question, “Daddy, how come I don’t have good hair?” sets the stage for a profound exploration of the definitions of “good” and “bad” hair within African American culture. Rock embarks on a journey across the United States, interviewing a variety of individuals, from everyday women to prominent figures in the beauty industry, revealing the often painful and humorous truths about Black hair.

One of the documentary's key themes is the notion of “good hair,” a term historically associated with hair that is straighter and softer, often equated with European standards of beauty. Rock discusses the painful legacy of colorism and the internalized racism that has led many African Americans to perceive their natural hair as less desirable. This perception is not only influenced by societal standards but also perpetuated within the community, creating a cycle of self-judgment and external validation that many individuals grapple with.

Throughout the film, Rock introduces the audience to various aspects of the hair industry, including the world of hair relaxers and weaves. He humorously navigates the process of how women modify their hair to conform to these beauty ideals, exposing the chemical treatments that can lead to health risks. By interviewing hairdressers and beauty salon owners, Rock sheds light on the economic ramifications of these beauty standards, illustrating how the pursuit of “good hair” can lead to significant financial expenditures for many African American women.

Good Hair also explores the cultural practices and traditions associated with hair within African American communities. Rock highlights the importance of hair braiding and natural hairstyles as expressions of identity and pride. He emphasizes that while the desire for “good hair” is prevalent, there is also a growing movement advocating for natural hair acceptance, celebrating the diversity of Black hair textures as an integral part of cultural heritage.

Furthermore, the film features candid discussions with Black male celebrities, including Alonzo Mourning and Ice-T, who share their perspectives on hair and beauty standards. Their reflections reveal how these societal pressures extend beyond women, affecting men and influencing perceptions of masculinity and attractiveness within the Black community. This broadens the discussion, showing that the conversation about hair is not limited to women alone but is a collective issue that requires a communal understanding and change.

In conclusion, Good Hair serves as both an entertaining and educational documentary that challenges the audience to rethink the notions of beauty and identity within African American culture. By blending humor with critical insights, Chris Rock invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences and the broader societal implications of hair. The film is a powerful reminder that hair, in all its forms, is more than just a personal aesthetic; it is a reflection of culture, history, and identity. As we continue to navigate the complexities of race and beauty in contemporary society, Good Hair remains a vital conversation starter, urging us to embrace and celebrate our natural selves.

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Black Psychology Write Up (By: Alyssa Olson)

In Chapter 5 of Introduction to African American Studies, Anderson and Stewart offer a deep examination of Black psychology and its role in understanding African American mental health. They argue that mainstream psychology, based on Western ideals, often overlooks the unique experiences of Black individuals, particularly the psychological effects of racism and historical trauma. The chapter advocates for the development of a distinct Black psychology framework—one that centers African American cultural experiences and provides better support for addressing the harmful effects of systemic oppression.

I found that one of the central ideas in the chapter is the concept of "healthy paranoia," a response to the constant exposure to racial discrimination. In mainstream psychology, hyper-awareness or distrust might be seen as anxiety or paranoia, but the authors explain that for African Americans, this is an adaptive survival mechanism. They highlight how these behaviors are protective responses to racial hostility and threats, demonstrating that Black psychology needs to redefine what is considered healthy or unhealthy for African Americans in a society shaped by racism.

The chapter also explores the psychological impact of historical traumas such as slavery, segregation, and ongoing racial discrimination. It connect the legacies of slavery and Jim Crow laws with contemporary psychological challenges faced by African Americans, such as depression, anxiety, and internalized racism. This historical context is crucial because it challenges the idea that these issues are purely personal or individual—they are rooted in centuries of systemic oppression. The authors emphasize how transgenerational trauma affects both individual mental health and the collective well-being of African American communities.

The Chapter also discusses the various coping strategies used by African Americans to maintain psychological well-being. Spirituality, communal support, and cultural pride play key roles in the resilience of Black individuals. The Black church, for example, is presented as a vital institution that offers emotional, spiritual, and communal support, helping people cope with the ongoing stress of racial oppression. These culturally specific coping mechanisms are highlighted as important tools for surviving and thriving in the face of systemic racism.

Another key point the authors make is the importance of cultural identity in psychological well-being. They argue that for African Americans, embracing a positive Black identity is a critical part of healing from the psychological harm caused by racism and negative stereotypes. African-centered psychology emphasizes the need for African Americans to reclaim and celebrate their cultural heritage as a way of building self-esteem and counteracting the negative effects of internalized racism. In this chapter the authors suggest that a strong sense of cultural pride and belonging can foster resilience and promote mental health within the African American community.

Resilience, in fact, is a recurring theme in the chapter. The authors highlight the incredible resilience that African American communities have shown in the face of centuries of oppression, from slavery to contemporary forms of racism. This resilience has allowed Black communities to survive and, in many cases, flourish under incredibly difficult circumstances. Understanding and fostering this resilience, they argue, is essential for promoting psychological well-being within these communities.

Overall I think this chapter on Black psychology is a powerful contribution to African American studies. It challenges mainstream psychological frameworks that often pathologize Black experiences and offers an alternative approach that centers cultural competence, resilience, and healing. For me, this chapter opened my eyes to the ways in which traditional psychological theories have often ignored the experiences of African Americans and the importance of developing frameworks that truly serve their well-being. The authors’ focus on cultural identity, resilience, and historical context underscores the need for a more inclusive and culturally sensitive approach to mental health in Black communities.

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September 26th Blog Write Up (By: Alyssa Olson)

In Chapter 4 of Introduction to African American Studies, Anderson and Stewart explore the rich and resilient culture of African Americans, focusing on how community, spirituality, and creativity have shaped Black life throughout history. A central theme is the role of community, which, even during slavery, provided emotional and practical support. This communal spirit, rooted in African traditions, has continued to influence African American social structures, helping communities survive systemic racism.

The authors also highlight the significance of spirituality, particularly the Black church, which served as both a religious and social institution. During slavery, Christianity was transformed into a tool of resistance and liberation, with the church becoming a place for political organizing, education, and fostering cultural pride. This spiritual legacy remains strong in contemporary African American life.

Creativity is another key element of African American culture. Anderson and Stewart discuss how African Americans have used music, art, and literature as forms of expression and resistance. From spirituals and jazz to hip-hop, Black cultural creativity has not only enriched African American life but has also had a profound influence on broader American culture.

Education is also emphasized as a pathway to empowerment, with African Americans historically fighting for the right to learn and achieve educational equality. The chapter shows how intellectuals and educators have shaped African American consciousness and driven societal change.

Finally, Anderson and Stewart discuss how resistance has always been a core element of African American culture. From the Civil Rights Movement to Black Lives Matter, African Americans have used cultural practices to challenge oppression and fight for justice. The authors argue that African American culture is not just about survival, but a source of strength, identity, and empowerment.

This chapter underscores the resilience of African American society, showing how community, spirituality, and creativity have been essential tools in the fight against systemic racism. It left me with a deep appreciation for how these cultural elements continue to shape the Black experience today.

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Birth of a Nation Blog Write up (By: Alyssa Olson)

The 2016 film Birth of a Nation, directed by and starring Nate Parker, offers a powerful reimagining of Nat Turner's 1831 rebellion, one of the most significant slave uprisings in American history. This cinematic retelling explores the deeply ingrained atrocities of slavery and the transformative journey of a man pushed to lead a revolt against systemic oppression.

The film opens with a stark portrayal of Turner’s life as a preacher on a plantation. He is initially seen as a compliant figure, one who uses his Christian faith to soothe fellow enslaved people under the watchful eye of white plantation owners. However, Turner’s gradual awakening to the horrors of slavery is catalyzed by the violence inflicted on his family, his people, and ultimately himself. This evolution from preacher to rebel reflects a broader historical narrative about resistance in the face of overwhelming brutality.

One of the film’s key strengths is its visceral depiction of the psychological and physical suffering endured by enslaved Africans. It does not shy away from showing the cruelty of the institution of slavery, and in doing so, it forces viewers to confront the moral contradictions of a society built on the rhetoric of liberty while perpetuating human bondage. The use of religious imagery throughout the film underscores this contradiction, as Turner’s role as a preacher becomes inverted. He initially preaches submission, but later he embraces a violent path to liberation, mirroring biblical themes of divine justice.

From a historical and African studies perspective, Birth of a Nation raises essential questions about rebellion, legacy, and the cost of freedom. Nat Turner’s revolt, though ultimately unsuccessful in achieving immediate emancipation, had a profound impact on the abolitionist movement and heightened fears among white Southern slaveholders. The film illustrates how acts of resistance, even when crushed, can ignite long-term social change by inspiring future generations to challenge oppressive systems.

Yet, Birth of a Nation also engages with the complexity of Turner’s legacy. Was he a hero, a martyr, or a controversial figure due to the violence of the uprising? The film leans heavily into the heroism of Turner’s actions, framing him as a symbol of black resistance, though it leaves room for viewers to grapple with the ethical implications of violent rebellion. In the context of African studies, I believe this film serves as a powerful educational tool. It highlights the often-overlooked history of slave uprisings in the United States and contributes to a deeper understanding of how enslaved Africans resisted their dehumanization in both subtle and overt ways. Birth of a Nation is not just a historical narrative—it is a meditation on power, resistance, and the enduring fight for dignity.

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The Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade Blog Write-Up (By: Alyssa Olson)

The recent lectures on African enslavement were not easy to hear for me. The topics—covering white supremacy, the African slave trade, colonialism, and modern slavery—made me confront a history of deep suffering and cruelty. It’s been heartbreaking to learn more about how people were treated like objects, traded as if they weren’t even human. It’s hard to understand how anyone could be so cruel just because of someone’s skin color. The fact that people were dehumanized in this way is difficult to accept, and the scale of this injustice is honestly a little overwhelming.

We began by studying Africa in the Middle Ages and the empires of Ghana, Mali, and Songhay, where African societies thrived with advanced systems of governance and trade. Yet, the expansion of world religions, particularly Islam and Christianity, played a role in colonizing these lands. This complex relationship between religion and domination was eye-opening, especially when we discussed the Arab slave trade and its devastating impact on Africa’s population and wealth. I had not realized the breadth of the slave trade beyond the Atlantic, particularly how the Indian Ocean African slave trade and Arab involvement also contributed to Africa’s diminished strength over centuries.

One of the most difficult moments came when we discussed the capture and acquisition of Africans, the systematic process of dehumanization that transformed free individuals into enslaved people. The "seasoning" process, a brutal period of breaking a person's spirit before sale, emphasized the sheer cruelty that these people endured. Learning about the transatlantic Triangle Slave Trade and the ways African populations were scattered and brutalized across the Americas was overwhelming, especially when the professor started diving into the North and South American resistance movements, highlighting the different ways enslaved Africans fought for their freedom. Still, the horrific control measures—rape, sexual assault, and violent domination—used to suppress enslaved people were devastating to hear about.

The lectures involving African enslavement and the economic systems that followed, including the post-Civil War era of sharecropping and contemporary forms of slavery, was equally troubling. It was disheartening to realize how even after emancipation, African Americans continued to be exploited and controlled. The persistence of white supremacy and systemic oppression through Jim Crow laws and segregation demonstrated that freedom, in a legal sense, did not equate to equality or justice.

What truly struck me was the global scale of this violence. From the European enslavement of North Africans to the Moofa Holocaust and the Spanish Inquisition, it became clear that slavery, subjugation, and violence have been interwoven throughout history. Even today, as we discussed the existence of modern-day slavery in places like Libya, I was reminded that this history is far from over.

These lectures have been difficult to listen to, not just because of the graphic details but because they force me to grapple with humanity’s darkest tendencies. The fact that people were treated as property—traded and abused without recognition of their humanity—feels almost impossible to understand. Yet I know the study of these histories is essential, as it reminds us that the legacies of colonialism, slavery, and racism are still with us today. We must confront them if we are ever to move forward.

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Ivan Van Sertima's "They Came Before Columbus" (By: Alyssa Olson)

 Ivan Van Sertima's groundbreaking work, "They Came Before Columbus," challenges conventional narratives of history and highlights the rich contributions of African civilizations to the Americas long before European contact. The video presentation offers an enlightening perspective that forces viewers to reconsider the origins of cultural and technological exchanges between Africa and the Americas.

Van Sertima, an anthropologist and historian, meticulously argues that Africans were not only present in the Americas prior to Columbus but that they played a crucial role in shaping the civilizations there. He supports this claim with a wealth of evidence, including archaeological findings, linguistic similarities, and historical accounts. One of the most compelling aspects of his argument is the examination of ancient maps that suggest a sophisticated understanding of geography among African civilizations. He posits that these maps, which depict transoceanic travel, point to a reality where Africans engaged in maritime exploration.

The video further delves into the cultural exchanges that took place between Africa and indigenous American peoples. Van Sertima highlights shared agricultural practices, religious beliefs, and even art forms that bear striking resemblances to African traditions. For instance, the similarities in the cultivation of crops such as yams and millet suggest an exchange of agricultural knowledge. This cross-cultural interaction not only enriched the lives of the indigenous peoples of the Americas but also demonstrates the advanced state of African societies at the time.

One of the most thought-provoking moments in the video is when Van Sertima addresses the implications of these historical realities. He argues that acknowledging the presence and influence of Africans in the Americas prior to European colonization is crucial for a complete understanding of world history. This perspective shifts the narrative from one of European superiority to a more interconnected view of global civilizations.

Additionally, the video invites us to reflect on the impact of historical erasure and how it shapes contemporary understandings of race and identity. By highlighting the African presence in the Americas, Van Sertima challenges the Eurocentric narratives that have dominated historical discourse and marginalized African contributions. This re-evaluation is not just an academic exercise; it has profound implications for how we understand cultural heritage and the ongoing legacy of colonialism.

In conclusion, Ivan Van Sertima's "They Came Before Columbus" serves as a powerful reminder of the complexity and richness of human history. It calls for a broader recognition of the interconnectedness of cultures and the importance of honoring the contributions of all peoples. As we study African history and its global implications, it is vital to embrace diverse narratives that reflect the true tapestry of our shared past. Van Sertima's work not only enriches our understanding of African history but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the contributions of African peoples to the world as a whole.

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Major Ideology Blog Write UP (By: Alyssa Olson)

The Natchez movement, spearheaded by figures like Medgar Evers and Rudy Shields, stands as a crucial turning point in the civil rights struggle in Mississippi. This grassroots campaign effectively combined economic boycotts with organized paramilitary defense, establishing a model that would resonate throughout the state and beyond.

Evers emerged as a key leader, arguing for demonstrations despite legal challenges and rallying support for the Natchez campaign. Although demonstrations were significant, the local NAACP recognized the economic boycott as the linchpin of the movement. The boycott aimed at White-owned businesses achieved nearly 100% compliance among the Black community. Shields, a former Korean War veteran, played a pivotal role in enforcing the boycott, overseeing a squad that not only encouraged adherence but also used intimidation to discipline violators.

This approach to enforcement, while controversial, underscores a dual strategy employed by the movement: defending the community against external threats while exerting pressure on internal dissent. As Evers noted, there was a commitment to ensuring the success of their economic strategy, even to the point of violence if necessary. This willingness to resort to coercive measures marked a significant departure from traditional nonviolent tactics, showcasing a more aggressive posture in the face of systemic oppression.

The success of the Natchez boycott prompted surrounding communities to adopt similar strategies. The Deacons for Defense and Justice expanded their reach, providing both protection and enforcement in boycotts across southwest Mississippi. In Claiborne County, for example, the local chapter, known as the Black Hats, emerged as a formidable force, patrolling neighborhoods and supporting boycotts of White merchants. Their presence served as both a deterrent to potential violence from White supremacists and a mechanism for enforcing solidarity among Black residents.

The Natchez model highlighted the importance of community solidarity and self-defense in the civil rights movement. As economic pressure mounted, concessions from the White power structure began to materialize. By the end of the 1960s, significant advancements had been achieved, including the hiring of Black police officers and the desegregation of public facilities. This grassroots activism demonstrated that local communities could instigate change using their own resources and strategies, rather than relying solely on federal intervention.

The legacy of the Natchez movement continues to influence contemporary discussions on civil rights and community organizing. It serves as a reminder of the necessity for collective action, resilience, and, at times, a willingness to adopt unconventional tactics in the fight for justice. The success of the Natchez paradigm underscores the critical role that grassroots activism played in dismantling systemic racism and achieving civil rights in the American South.

As we study the Mississippi freedom movement, the Natchez model provides essential insights into the complexities of resistance and the multifaceted strategies employed by Black communities. Understanding these dynamics is vital for comprehending the broader struggle against racial injustice and the ongoing quest for equality in the United States.

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A Great and Might Walk Blog Write Up

 "A Great and Mighty Walk," featuring the esteemed scholar John Henrik Clarke, is a powerful exploration of African history and its implications for contemporary society. Clarke’s insights resonate profoundly, particularly in today’s context of social justice movements and discussions surrounding race and identity. The documentary serves not only as a historical recounting but also as a call to action for a collective awakening among people of African descent.

Clarke’s narrative addresses the legacy of colonialism and the erasure of African contributions to world history, which remains strikingly relevant as discussions around reparations and racial equity gain momentum in the United States. In the past year, the conversation surrounding reparations has intensified, with various cities and states examining the feasibility of compensating descendants of enslaved Africans. This aligns with Clarke’s argument that an understanding of history is crucial for recognizing present injustices and forging a path forward. For example, in places like California and Illinois, legislative proposals to study reparations highlight the growing acknowledgment of historical injustices, echoing Clarke’s call for awareness and action.

The film beautifully interweaves Clarke’s personal journey with broader historical themes, emphasizing that knowledge of one’s past is vital for empowerment. His assertion that "the greatest weapon of the oppressor is the mind of the oppressed" serves as a poignant reminder in light of current educational debates. Issues such as Critical Race Theory and the pushback against inclusive historical curricula reflect Clarke's concerns about how history is taught and understood, shaping societal narratives and identities. As educators and advocates strive to include diverse perspectives in school systems, Clarke’s teachings underscore the importance of critical examination of history to dismantle systemic biases.

Moreover, Clarke’s focus on unity among African peoples resonates with the global Black Lives Matter movement, which continues to galvanize communities and advocate for systemic change. The movement highlights the urgent need for solidarity across various struggles, reflecting Clarke’s vision of a collective awakening and resistance against oppression. As activists today strive to address not only police brutality but also the broader implications of systemic racism, Clarke’s insights underscore the importance of history in informing present-day actions. The recent surge in protests and advocacy surrounding environmental justice further illustrates how interconnected these struggles are, with many activists drawing parallels between racial injustice and environmental degradation, advocating for a holistic approach to social change.

In conclusion, "A Great and Mighty Walk" is more than just a documentary; it is an essential piece of cultural commentary that speaks to the heart of ongoing discussions about race, identity, and justice. John Henrik Clarke’s words are a clarion call for a deeper understanding of our shared history and the urgent need for a united front in the fight for equality. As society grapples with the complexities of these issues, Clarke’s legacy serves as both a guide and an inspiration for those seeking to effect meaningful change in the world today. His message, rooted in a profound understanding of history, is a powerful reminder that to move forward, we must first acknowledge and learn from our past.