HST 103 - Introduction to History: African History Through Film

1 course unit

This course explores transformations in African history through the lens of film. Throughout the course of the semester, we will examine key themes in African history, including African empires and civilizations, the Atlantic trade, the carving of Africa, the rise of African nationalisms, independence, neocolonialism, and contemporary social and political movements. In addition to exploring Africa’s complex past, we will consider the ways Africa and Africans have been depicted to audiences and the consequences of such portrayals. We will interrogate stereotypes about Africa in film and identify historical, social, economic, political, and cultural forces at play in the making and marketing of films about Africa and Africans.
Meets general academic requirements HU and DE.