Born in Blackness

Born in BlacknessDiscover the transformative narrative of 'Born in Blackness,' a groundbreaking exploration of Africa's pivotal role in shaping the modern world. This compelling book by Howard W. French reframes traditional historical accounts that prioritize European perspectives. Rather than viewing European expansion during the Age of Discovery as a mere quest for ties with Asia, French delves into the underexplored economic and cultural connections that developed

Discover the transformative narrative of 'Born in Blackness,' a groundbreaking exploration of Africa's pivotal role in shaping the modern world. This compelling book by Howard W. French reframes traditional historical accounts that prioritize European perspectives. Rather than viewing European expansion during the Age of Discovery as a mere quest for ties with Asia, French delves into the underexplored economic and cultural connections that developed between Europe and the prosperous societies of West Africa. With an ISBN of 9781324092407, this brand new volume is published by W.W. Norton & Company in 2022.

Through a sweeping history of over six centuries, 'Born in Blackness' vividly illustrates how Africa and its rich history were crucial to the emergence of European democracy, economic power, and Enlightenment ideals. This narrative not only chronicles the beginnings of trade relations between Portugal and Africa but also intricately weaves together poignant personal stories with extensive historical analysis. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of how the exploitation and engagement with Africa fundamentally influenced the international political and economic landscape.

This essential read is perfect for those interested in African history, colonial studies, and the interconnectedness of global civilizations. Don’t miss your chance to explore this vital reassessment of modernity through the lens of African heritage.

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781324092407
Year: 2022
Publisher: W W Norton & Company


Description:


Traditional accounts of the making of the modern world afford a place of primacy to European history. Some credit the fifteenth-century Age of Discovery and the maritime connection it established between West and East; others the accidental unearthing of the "New World." Still others point to the development of the scientific method, or the spread of Judeo-Christian beliefs; and so on, ad infinitum. The history of Africa, by contrast, has long been relegated to the remote outskirts of our global story. What if, instead, we put Africa and Africans at the very center of our thinking about the origins of modernity?

In a sweeping narrative spanning more than six centuries, Howard W. French does just that, for Born in Blackness vitally reframes the story of medieval and emerging Africa, demonstrating how the economic ascendancy of Europe, the anchoring of democracy in the West, and the fulfillment of so-called Enlightenment ideals all grew out of Europe's dehumanizing engagement with the "dark" continent. In fact, French reveals, the first impetus for the Age of Discovery was not-as we are so often told, even today-Europe's yearning for ties with Asia, but rather its centuries-old desire to forge a trade in gold with legendarily rich Black societies sequestered away in the heart of West Africa.

Creating a historical narrative that begins with the commencement of commercial relations between Portugal and Africa in the fifteenth century and ends with the onset of World War II, Born in Blackness interweaves precise historical detail with poignant, personal reportage. In so doing, it dramatically retrieves the