high culture

GEO-HISTORY OF AFRICA/ARABIAGEO-HISTORY OF AFRICA/ARABIA

36,525 B.C.E. - 37,736 K.C.36,525 B.C.E. - 37,736 K.C.DR. DUKUZUMURENYIDR. DUKUZUMURENYI

II

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE IMPORTANCE OF AFRICAN & ARABIAN AFRICAN & ARABIAN

HIGH CULTURE IN HIGH CULTURE IN THE MODERN WORLDTHE MODERN WORLD

WHY STUDY WHY STUDY AFRICAN & ARABIAN AFRICAN & ARABIAN

GEO-HISTORY?GEO-HISTORY?

One Reason Comes From One Reason Comes From African-American Historian African-American Historian

Dr. John Henrik Clarke.Dr. John Henrik Clarke.

Dr. Clarke on Cultural History:

• "History is a clock people use to tell their "History is a clock people use to tell their Historical CultureHistorical Culture and and Political Time of the Political Time of the DayDay…A Compass people use to find …A Compass people use to find themselves on the Map of themselves on the Map of Human GeographyHuman Geography. . [It] tells them where they have been, where [It] tells them where they have been, where they are and what they are…they are and what they are…Most importantly Most importantly History tells a people where they still must go History tells a people where they still must go and what they still must be.and what they still must be." "

Another Reason Comes From Another Reason Comes From El-Hajj Malik El-ShabazzEl-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz

Malcolm X on Geo-History:Malcolm X on Geo-History:

• ““Of All Our Studies Of All Our Studies HistoryHistory is best able is best able to Reward Our Research...History is a to Reward Our Research...History is a People’s Memory... People’s Memory... Without a memory Without a memory Man is demoted to the Lower Man is demoted to the Lower AnimalsAnimals.”.”

Why Study African-Arabian Why Study African-Arabian Geo-History?Geo-History?

• 1. It is in the Region of East Africa that the 1. It is in the Region of East Africa that the “Cradle of Humanity” can be found.“Cradle of Humanity” can be found.

• 2. It was in Northeast Africa that the World 2. It was in Northeast Africa that the World High Culture [Civilization] began.High Culture [Civilization] began.

• 3. It was in North Africa & Arabia that the 3. It was in North Africa & Arabia that the World’s three Dominant Faiths began.World’s three Dominant Faiths began.

• 4. It is in the North Africa & Arabia that the 4. It is in the North Africa & Arabia that the major World Energy Resource [Oil] is found.major World Energy Resource [Oil] is found.

IIII

FACTS ABOUT FACTS ABOUT AFRICA &ARABIAAFRICA &ARABIA

MAP OF MAP OF AFRICAAFRICA

•MAP OF ARABIA

FACTS ABOUT AFRICA & ARABIAFACTS ABOUT AFRICA & ARABIA

• 1. The Sahara, the largest desert 1. The Sahara, the largest desert in the world, is located in in the world, is located in Northern Africa. It is used by Northern Africa. It is used by Geographers to divide the Geographers to divide the continent of Africa into North continent of Africa into North Africa [the area North of the Africa [the area North of the Sahara] and sub-Saharan Africa Sahara] and sub-Saharan Africa [the area South of the Sahara].[the area South of the Sahara].


• 2. People have lived in 2. People have lived in present-day Algeria for over present-day Algeria for over 40,000 years.40,000 years.

• 3. Most of the people in 3. Most of the people in North Africa live along the North Africa live along the Mediterranean coast.Mediterranean coast.


• 4. The Nile River, the longest river 4. The Nile River, the longest river in the world, is located in Africa in the world, is located in Africa and flows from the south to the and flows from the south to the north.north.

• 5. North Africa and Southwest 5. North Africa and Southwest Asia have 130 million more people Asia have 130 million more people than the United States.than the United States.

GEOGRAPHY MATH PROBLEMGEOGRAPHY MATH PROBLEM

• 1. How many people live in 1. How many people live in North Africa and Southwest North Africa and Southwest Asia, if there are 300 million Asia, if there are 300 million people in the United States people in the United States and North Africa and and North Africa and Southwest Asia has 130 Southwest Asia has 130 million more people than the million more people than the United States?United States?


• 6. The Dead Sea is the earth’s 6. The Dead Sea is the earth’s saltiest body of water-about nine saltiest body of water-about nine times saltier than oceans. It is also times saltier than oceans. It is also the lowest point on the earth’s the lowest point on the earth’s surface 400 m below sea level.surface 400 m below sea level.

• 7. The Arabian Peninsula supplies 7. The Arabian Peninsula supplies the world with one third of all oil the world with one third of all oil produced in the world.produced in the world.


• 8. Saudi Arabia leads the world 8. Saudi Arabia leads the world in producing freshwater from in producing freshwater from salt water. Its 22 desalinization salt water. Its 22 desalinization plants produce 30 percent of all plants produce 30 percent of all desalinated water in the world.desalinated water in the world.


• 9. Most of the usable water in 9. Most of the usable water in Southwest Asia and North Africa Southwest Asia and North Africa comes from aquifers and from comes from aquifers and from three river basins: the Jordan, the three river basins: the Jordan, the Tigris-Euphrates, and the Nile. Tigris-Euphrates, and the Nile. Drought, industrialization, Drought, industrialization, irrigation needs, and population irrigation needs, and population increases-all strain the limited increases-all strain the limited water supply.water supply.


• 10. The country of Mali in West 10. The country of Mali in West Africa was home to three great Africa was home to three great Medieval Commercial Empires: Medieval Commercial Empires: Ghana, Mali and Songhai, that Ghana, Mali and Songhai, that existed from 500 C.E. to 1617 existed from 500 C.E. to 1617 C.E.C.E.


• 11A. African Americans are the descendants of over 100 West African ethnic groups who were enslaved during the European Slave Trade from 1444 C.E. to 1888 C.E.

WEST WEST AFRICAAFRICA

FACTS ABOUT AFRICA & ARABIAFACTS ABOUT AFRICA & ARABIA• 11B. Some of the Ethnic Groups are: 11B. Some of the Ethnic Groups are:

the Bambara, Mandinka, Mende, the Bambara, Mandinka, Mende, Dogon, Fulani, Mossi, Asante, Fon, Dogon, Fulani, Mossi, Asante, Fon, Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Wolof, Fante, Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Wolof, Fante, Serere, Luba, Mbundu, Bakota, Serere, Luba, Mbundu, Bakota, Akan, Kissi, Kpelle, Susu, Tukolor, Akan, Kissi, Kpelle, Susu, Tukolor, Balanta, Baule, Kru, Bassa, Dan, Balanta, Baule, Kru, Bassa, Dan, Grebo, Songhay, & Kanuri.Grebo, Songhay, & Kanuri.

LANGUAGES OF ENSLAVED WEST

AFRICANS


• 12. Liberia is Africa’s oldest republic. 12. Liberia is Africa’s oldest republic. It was settled by African Americans It was settled by African Americans freed from slavery in the 1820s.freed from slavery in the 1820s.

• 13. In Sudan, African blacks are a 13. In Sudan, African blacks are a majority and live in the south; Arab majority and live in the south; Arab Muslims are a minority and live in the Muslims are a minority and live in the north and central region.north and central region.


• 14. Nigeria is Africa’s most 14. Nigeria is Africa’s most populous nation. Pop. 130 populous nation. Pop. 130 million.million.

• 15. Africa south of the Sahara 15. Africa south of the Sahara has about 355 million more has about 355 million more people than the United States.people than the United States.

GEOGRAPHY MATH PROBLEMGEOGRAPHY MATH PROBLEM

• 1. How many people live in 1. How many people live in sub-Saharan Africa, if there sub-Saharan Africa, if there are 300 million people in the are 300 million people in the United States and sub-Saharan United States and sub-Saharan Africa has 355 million more Africa has 355 million more people than the United States?people than the United States?

FACTS ABOUT AFRICA & ARABIAFACTS ABOUT AFRICA & ARABIA• 16. 90% of Africa lies within the 16. 90% of Africa lies within the

Tropics, giving Africa the largest Tropics, giving Africa the largest tropical area of any other continent.tropical area of any other continent.

• 17. Lesotho is called the 17. Lesotho is called the “Switzerland of southern Africa” “Switzerland of southern Africa” because of the majestic scenery in the because of the majestic scenery in the Drakensberg and Maloti mountains.Drakensberg and Maloti mountains.


• 18. The Natural Resources of 18. The Natural Resources of Africa and Arabia include: Africa and Arabia include: Diamonds, Gold, Copper, Diamonds, Gold, Copper, Uranium, Manganese, Cobalt, Uranium, Manganese, Cobalt, Zinc, Natural Gas, Iron Ore, Zinc, Natural Gas, Iron Ore, Lead, Petroleum, and Phosphate.Lead, Petroleum, and Phosphate.

IIIIII

HUMANITIES HUMANITIES AFRICAN AFRICAN ORIGINSORIGINS

Humanity: African OriginsHumanity: African Origins

• All members of the human family All members of the human family come from sub-Saharan Africa. come from sub-Saharan Africa. Primarily from the region of the Primarily from the region of the Sudan, Ethiopia, Eastern and Sudan, Ethiopia, Eastern and Southern Africa. Thus, Africa was Southern Africa. Thus, Africa was known in ancient times as Al-Kebu-known in ancient times as Al-Kebu-Lan or Af-Rui-Ka [Lan or Af-Rui-Ka [Birthplace, Birth Birthplace, Birth of the Spirit, Place of Beginningsof the Spirit, Place of Beginnings.].]


• Therefore, the first man & woman Therefore, the first man & woman [womb-man or man with a womb] [womb-man or man with a womb] were Africans. Today, they would were Africans. Today, they would be called Black Africans, Negro or be called Black Africans, Negro or simply Black. [Ivan Van Sertima, simply Black. [Ivan Van Sertima, Blacks in Science Ancient & ModernBlacks in Science Ancient & Modern] ]

Humanity: African OriginsHumanity: African Origins• Oldest Oldest specimensspecimens of Humanity found in of Humanity found in

the following African Countries:the following African Countries:

• Olduvai Gorge, TanzaniaOlduvai Gorge, Tanzania

• South AfricaSouth Africa

• KenyaKenya

• EthiopiaEthiopia

• AlgeriaAlgeria

How Do We Know This?How Do We Know This?• Facts about the African Origin of Facts about the African Origin of

Humanity were obtained by Humanity were obtained by European, Asian and American, European, Asian and American, African-American and African African-American and African Scientists who were experts in the Scientists who were experts in the Sciences of Archaeology, Sciences of Archaeology, Paleontology and Paleontology and Physical/Cultural Anthropology.Physical/Cultural Anthropology.

What is Archaeology?What is Archaeology?• Archaeology: the study of Archaeology: the study of

extinctextinct human societies using human societies using the material remains of their the material remains of their behavior. The objectives of behavior. The objectives of archaeology are to archaeology are to constructconstruct culture history, reconstruct culture history, reconstruct past ways of life, and study past ways of life, and study cultural change over time.cultural change over time.

What is Physical Anthropology?What is Physical Anthropology?

• Physical Anthropology: the study Physical Anthropology: the study of the biological nature and of the biological nature and evolution of humanity. Also evolution of humanity. Also called, Biological Anthropology. called, Biological Anthropology. [Anthropology: the study of the [Anthropology: the study of the biological and cultural biological and cultural characteristics of all people in all characteristics of all people in all periods of time and all areas.]periods of time and all areas.]

What is Cultural Anthropology?

• Cultural Anthropology: the Cultural Anthropology: the study of human behavior that study of human behavior that is learned and is is learned and is typicaltypical of a of a particular human group.particular human group.

What is Paleontology?What is Paleontology?• Paleontology: the scientific Paleontology: the scientific

study of fossils. Fossils found by study of fossils. Fossils found by paleontologists are used by paleontologists are used by paleoanthropologists. paleoanthropologists. [Paleoanthropology is the study [Paleoanthropology is the study of fossils and artifacts in the of fossils and artifacts in the context in which they are context in which they are found.]found.]

Humanity: African OriginsHumanity: African Origins• The European Paleontologists who The European Paleontologists who

made the discoveries across the made the discoveries across the continent of Africa from 1924 to continent of Africa from 1924 to 1992 were:1992 were:

• Dr. Raymond DartDr. Raymond Dart

• Dr. Robert BroomDr. Robert Broom

• Dr. Louis & Mary LeakeyDr. Louis & Mary Leakey

• Dr. Donald JohnsonDr. Donald Johnson


• In the Tuesday, October 30, 1984 Science Section of the New York New York TimesTimes newspaper, John Wilford newspaper, John Wilford states that Dr. Louis & Mary states that Dr. Louis & Mary Leakey by unearthing the oldest Leakey by unearthing the oldest human remains anywhere in the human remains anywhere in the world, in Tanzania proved beyond world, in Tanzania proved beyond doubt the AFRICAN ORIGINS OF doubt the AFRICAN ORIGINS OF MANKINDMANKIND..

Historian, Sir Godfrey Higgins on Historian, Sir Godfrey Higgins on Humanities Origins:Humanities Origins:

• ““Man was originally a Negro…and Man was originally a Negro…and he traveled Westwards, gradually he traveled Westwards, gradually changing from the jet black of changing from the jet black of India, through all the India, through all the intermediate intermediate shadesshades of Syria, Italy, France to the of Syria, Italy, France to the fair white and red of the maid of fair white and red of the maid of Holland and Britain.”Holland and Britain.”

Dr. Leonard Jeffries, Jr. on Dr. Leonard Jeffries, Jr. on Humanities Origins:Humanities Origins:

• ““Humanity born at the latitude of Humanity born at the latitude of the Great Lakes near the Equator the Great Lakes near the Equator is by necessity is by necessity pigmentedpigmented and and African. This is African. This is substantiatedsubstantiated by by Gloger’s Law which states that Gloger’s Law which states that warm-blooded animals are warm-blooded animals are pigmented in hot and humid pigmented in hot and humid climates.”climates.”

What is the What is the Latitude/Longitude of Latitude/Longitude of

the Great Lakes the Great Lakes Region of Africa? Region of Africa?

[10 Points][10 Points]

J.A. Rogers, U.S. Historian on J.A. Rogers, U.S. Historian on Humanities Origins:Humanities Origins:

• ““Herodotus [Ancient Greek Historian] said Herodotus [Ancient Greek Historian] said in 447 B.C. that the people of all that region in 447 B.C. that the people of all that region of Mesopotamia and India were Black. He of Mesopotamia and India were Black. He called them Ethiopians. Moreover, tropical called them Ethiopians. Moreover, tropical man is never white. He is most often black man is never white. He is most often black or dark brown, with flat nose, frizzy or or dark brown, with flat nose, frizzy or woolly hair, and protruding jaws.”woolly hair, and protruding jaws.”

Herodotus on Humanities Origins:Herodotus on Humanities Origins:• Herodotus, a Greek Historian, writing Herodotus, a Greek Historian, writing

in 447 B.C. stated that the “in 447 B.C. stated that the “PEOPLE PEOPLE OF ALL THE REGION OF OF ALL THE REGION OF MESOPOTAMIA [ARABIA, MESOPOTAMIA [ARABIA, SOUTHWEST ASIA], INDIA & SOUTHWEST ASIA], INDIA & EGYPT [AFRICA] WERE BLACK.EGYPT [AFRICA] WERE BLACK.” ” The Greek word that he used to The Greek word that he used to describe them was Aethiops: describe them was Aethiops: ethiopians, or black skinned.ethiopians, or black skinned.

J.A. Rogers, U.S. Historian on J.A. Rogers, U.S. Historian on Humanities Origins:Humanities Origins:

• “ “ Thus, when the Christians chose Adam Thus, when the Christians chose Adam as their ancestor, they really chose a as their ancestor, they really chose a dark-skinned dark-skinned progenitorprogenitor for the human for the human race, even though the early Christians of race, even though the early Christians of Europe knowing no better represented Europe knowing no better represented Adam in their paintings as white.” [Adam in their paintings as white.” [What What They Never Told You In History ClassThey Never Told You In History Class]]

Dr. Ashely Montagu on Dr. Ashely Montagu on Humanities Origins:Humanities Origins:

• “ “ All races are issued [born from or All races are issued [born from or fathered by] from the African race by fathered by] from the African race by direct relationships [an example would direct relationships [an example would be the relationship of a child to it’s be the relationship of a child to it’s parents], and other continents were parents], and other continents were peopled [settled by people] from Africa.” peopled [settled by people] from Africa.” [[Man:His First Two Million Years: A Man:His First Two Million Years: A Brief Introduction to AnthropologyBrief Introduction to Anthropology]]

Dr. Cheikh Anta Diop, Seneglese Dr. Cheikh Anta Diop, Seneglese Scholar, on Humanities Origins:Scholar, on Humanities Origins:

• “ “ If mankind originated in Africa, it was If mankind originated in Africa, it was necessarily Negroid [Black] before becoming necessarily Negroid [Black] before becoming white through mutation and adaptation at the white through mutation and adaptation at the end of the last glaciation [Ice Age] in Europe…end of the last glaciation [Ice Age] in Europe…it is now more understandable why the it is now more understandable why the Grimaldi Negroid first occupied Europe for Grimaldi Negroid first occupied Europe for 10,000 years before Cro-Magnon man- The 10,000 years before Cro-Magnon man- The prototypeprototype of the white race—appeared of the white race—appeared (around 2000 B.C. to 1500 B.C.)”(around 2000 B.C. to 1500 B.C.)”

Griffith Taylor on Humanities Origins:Griffith Taylor on Humanities Origins:

• Writing in 1936 on early man in Writing in 1936 on early man in Europe, Griffith Taylor stated Europe, Griffith Taylor stated that Blacks were the first in that Blacks were the first in Europe and introduced their Europe and introduced their culture all over the world. culture all over the world. [[Environment and NationEnvironment and Nation]]

Professor John G. Jackson, on Professor John G. Jackson, on Humanities Origins:Humanities Origins:

• “Since there is overwhelming evidence that the human race originated in Africa, then all mankind has an African ancestry. Hence, all men must be Negroes [Blacks or Africans].”

Paul, The Apostle of the Christian Paul, The Apostle of the Christian Faith on Humanities Origins:Faith on Humanities Origins:

• ““And hath made of one blood all nations And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;” [Acts 17:26 KJV - their habitation;” [Acts 17:26 KJV - Book of Acts Chapter 17, Verse 26, King Book of Acts Chapter 17, Verse 26, King James Version]James Version]

IVIV

TYPES OF EARLY TYPES OF EARLY HUMANITYHUMANITY

Mono-genesis: One common OriginMono-genesis: One common Origin[Types of Early Humanity][Types of Early Humanity]

• Australopithecus: “Southern Australopithecus: “Southern Man or Man from the South.” Man or Man from the South.” Australopithecus lived in the Australopithecus lived in the humid forests of eastern and humid forests of eastern and southern Africa, 4.4 million southern Africa, 4.4 million years ago.years ago.


• Homo Habilis: “Man with Homo Habilis: “Man with ability”. Homo Habilis lived in ability”. Homo Habilis lived in Africa about 1.5 million years Africa about 1.5 million years ago.ago.

• Homo Erectus: “Man who walks Homo Erectus: “Man who walks upright”. Homo Erectus lived in upright”. Homo Erectus lived in Africa about 300,000 years ago.Africa about 300,000 years ago.


• Homo Sapiens: “Man who thinks”. Homo Sapiens: “Man who thinks”. Homo Sapiens lived in Africa about Homo Sapiens lived in Africa about 100,000 to 200,000 years ago. The first 100,000 to 200,000 years ago. The first Homo Sapiens were the Neanderthals. Homo Sapiens were the Neanderthals. The Neanderthals migrated from The Neanderthals migrated from Africa into Europe about 100,000 years Africa into Europe about 100,000 years ago.ago.


• Homo Sapiens Sapiens: “Man who Homo Sapiens Sapiens: “Man who thinks deeply”. Homo Sapiens Sapiens thinks deeply”. Homo Sapiens Sapiens originated in Africa about 50,000 originated in Africa about 50,000 years ago. They Migrated from Africa years ago. They Migrated from Africa into Europe, where they are called into Europe, where they are called Cro-Magnon man, and into Russia, Cro-Magnon man, and into Russia, China, Southeast Asia, and the China, Southeast Asia, and the Americas.Americas.

Human ProgenitorsHuman Progenitors

• Earliest Ancestor: Dinqesh- (Lucy) Earliest Ancestor: Dinqesh- (Lucy) 3.2 million-year-old hominid 3.2 million-year-old hominid ancestor of humanity found in ancestor of humanity found in Olduvai Gorge in Kenya in East Olduvai Gorge in Kenya in East Africa.Africa.

• Earliest Human Ancestor: Homo Earliest Human Ancestor: Homo Sapien African Eve- lived between Sapien African Eve- lived between 100,000 and 200,000 years ago.100,000 and 200,000 years ago.

Methods of ProofMethods of Proof• DNA [DNA [DDeoxyeoxyRRibonucleic Acid]- ibonucleic Acid]-

Human Genetic Code [the data for Human Genetic Code [the data for human development is located in DNA] human development is located in DNA] that contains cellular information [for that contains cellular information [for building proteins] and controls building proteins] and controls heredity [inherited characteristics].heredity [inherited characteristics].

Methods of ProofMethods of Proof• Radiocarbon Dating: Scientific method

for telling the age of once living material by measuring the amount of radioactive carbon remaining in it. Because radiocarbon decays at a known rate, archaeologists can measure how much the radioactive carbon has decayed in organic remains and figure out when plants and animals died.

How Did Mankind Change?How Did Mankind Change?

• Genetic Differentiation: Changes Genetic Differentiation: Changes occurring in human genes, by occurring in human genes, by mutation and or adaptation to mutation and or adaptation to the climate of the human living the climate of the human living environment.environment.

How Did Mankind Change?How Did Mankind Change?• Mutation is the act or process of Mutation is the act or process of

changing, sometimes a sudden changing, sometimes a sudden departure from the departure from the parent typeparent type [original], as when and individual or [original], as when and individual or race differs in one or more race differs in one or more characteristics, caused by a change in characteristics, caused by a change in genes or chromosomes. genes or chromosomes.


• Following the migration of Homo Sapien Following the migration of Homo Sapien Sapien from Africa to Europe and Asia, the Sapien from Africa to Europe and Asia, the climates of Europe and Asia changed as a climates of Europe and Asia changed as a result of the glaciation of Europe. This result of the glaciation of Europe. This change in climate led to changes the genetic change in climate led to changes the genetic make up of the early man in this region. make up of the early man in this region. An example is the Grimaldi of Europe.An example is the Grimaldi of Europe.


• The Grimalidi, an African or Black people, The Grimalidi, an African or Black people, who first settled in Europe about 30,000 who first settled in Europe about 30,000 years ago and named after the place in years ago and named after the place in France where their fossil remains are France where their fossil remains are located, adapted to the cooler climate of located, adapted to the cooler climate of Europe brought about by the last Ice Age. Europe brought about by the last Ice Age. Which resulted in a decrease in the amount Which resulted in a decrease in the amount of pigment in their skins.of pigment in their skins.

VV

ELEVEN MAJOR ELEVEN MAJOR GEOGRAPHIC GEOGRAPHIC

QUALITIES OF AFRICAQUALITIES OF AFRICA

ELEVEN MAJOR GEOGRAPHIC ELEVEN MAJOR GEOGRAPHIC QUALITIES OF AFRICAQUALITIES OF AFRICA

• 1. The continent of Africa is 1. The continent of Africa is home to several of the worlds home to several of the worlds oldest culture hearths and oldest culture hearths and civilizations. A culture hearth is civilizations. A culture hearth is the source area or place of origin the source area or place of origin of a major culture.of a major culture.


• 2. The physical geography of Africa is dominated by the continent’s plateau character, variable rainfall, soils of low fertility, and persistent environmental problems in farming.


• 3. The majority of Africa’s 3. The majority of Africa’s peoples remain dependent on peoples remain dependent on farming for their livelihood. farming for their livelihood. Urbanization is accelerating, but Urbanization is accelerating, but most countries’ populations most countries’ populations remain below 40 % urban.remain below 40 % urban.


• 4. The people of Africa 4. The people of Africa continue to face a high continue to face a high incidence of disease, including incidence of disease, including AIDS, diphtheria, malaria, AIDS, diphtheria, malaria, sleeping sickness, and river sleeping sickness, and river blindness.blindness.


• 5. Most of Africa’s political boundaries were drawn during the colonial period without regard for the human and physical geography of the areas they divided. This has caused numerous problems.

WORLD WORLD CULTURECULTUREHEARTHHEARTH


• 6. Considerable economic 6. Considerable economic development has occurred in development has occurred in many scattered areas of Africa, many scattered areas of Africa, but much of the realm’s but much of the realm’s population continues to have little population continues to have little access to the goods and services of access to the goods and services of the world economy.the world economy.


• 7. The realm is rich in raw 7. The realm is rich in raw materials vital to industrialized materials vital to industrialized countries. Examples are countries. Examples are Colombo-Tantalite, Oil, Gold, Colombo-Tantalite, Oil, Gold, and Diamonds.and Diamonds.


• 8. Patterns of raw-material 8. Patterns of raw-material exploitation and export routes exploitation and export routes set up during the colonial period set up during the colonial period still prevail in most of sub-still prevail in most of sub-Saharan Africa. Interregional Saharan Africa. Interregional connections are poor.connections are poor.


• 9. Africa has increasingly been 9. Africa has increasingly been drawn into the competition and drawn into the competition and conflict between the world’s conflict between the world’s major powers. The continent major powers. The continent contains about one-third of the contains about one-third of the world’s refugee population.world’s refugee population.


• 10. Africa’s population growth rate is by far 10. Africa’s population growth rate is by far the highest of any continents in spite of a the highest of any continents in spite of a difficult agricultural environment, numerous difficult agricultural environment, numerous hazards and diseases, and periodic food hazards and diseases, and periodic food shortages. Some of the best land is used to shortages. Some of the best land is used to produce such cash crops as coffee, tea, cocoa, produce such cash crops as coffee, tea, cocoa, and cotton for sale overseas.and cotton for sale overseas.


• 11. Even though post-11. Even though post-independence dislocations, civil independence dislocations, civil wars, and massive losses of life wars, and massive losses of life have plagued some parts of have plagued some parts of Africa, other areas have shown Africa, other areas have shown relative stability, cohesion, and relative stability, cohesion, and economic growth.economic growth.

VIVI

TEN MAJOR TEN MAJOR GEOGRAPHIC GEOGRAPHIC QUALITIES OF QUALITIES OF

ARABIAARABIA

TEN MAJOR GEOGRAPHIC TEN MAJOR GEOGRAPHIC QUALITIES OF ARABIAQUALITIES OF ARABIA

• 1. Arabia and the rest of 1. Arabia and the rest of Southwest Asia contains several Southwest Asia contains several of the world’s great ancient of the world’s great ancient culture hearths and civilizations.culture hearths and civilizations.


• 2. This realm along with Africa is 2. This realm along with Africa is the source of several world the source of several world religions, including Islam, religions, including Islam, Christianity and Judaism.Christianity and Judaism.


• 3. Arabia, Southwest Asia and 3. Arabia, Southwest Asia and North Africa is predominantly North Africa is predominantly Muslim. That faith pervades Muslim. That faith pervades cultures from Morocco in the cultures from Morocco in the west to Afghanistan in the east.west to Afghanistan in the east.


• 4. North Africa, Southwest Asia 4. North Africa, Southwest Asia and Arabia is also known as the and Arabia is also known as the “Arab World” but significant “Arab World” but significant populations there are not of populations there are not of Arab ancestry.Arab ancestry.


• 5. The population of North 5. The population of North Africa, Arabia and Southwest Africa, Arabia and Southwest Asia is widely dispersed in Asia is widely dispersed in discontinuous clusters.discontinuous clusters.


• 6. Natural environments in this 6. Natural environments in this area are dominated by drought area are dominated by drought and unreliable precipitation. and unreliable precipitation. Population concentrations occur Population concentrations occur where the water supply is where the water supply is adequate to marginal.adequate to marginal.


• 7. The realm is a pivotal area in 7. The realm is a pivotal area in the “Middle East,” where the “Middle East,” where Arabian, North African and Arabian, North African and Asian regions intersect.Asian regions intersect.


• 8. North Africa/Southwest Asia 8. North Africa/Southwest Asia and Arabia is a realm of intense and Arabia is a realm of intense discord and bitter conflict, discord and bitter conflict, reflected by frequent territorial reflected by frequent territorial disputes and boundary frictions.disputes and boundary frictions.


• 9. The collapse of the Union of 9. The collapse of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR/Soviet Union: 1917 - (USSR/Soviet Union: 1917 - 1991) and the revival of Islam in 1991) and the revival of Islam in Turkestan have extended the Turkestan have extended the Arab realm into central Asia.Arab realm into central Asia.


• 10. Enormous reserves of petroleum 10. Enormous reserves of petroleum lie beneath certain portions of the lie beneath certain portions of the realm, bringing wealth to those realm, bringing wealth to those favored places. But overall, oil favored places. But overall, oil revenues have raised the living revenues have raised the living standards of only a small minority of standards of only a small minority of the total population.the total population.

VIIVII

THE GOLDEN AGE OF THE GOLDEN AGE OF

AFRICAN & ARABIAN AFRICAN & ARABIAN

HIGH CULTUREHIGH CULTURE

36, 525 B.C.E. - 33236, 525 B.C.E. - 332 C.E. C.E.

NUBIA & KEMETNUBIA & KEMET

8000 B.C.E. - 4000 B.C.E.8000 B.C.E. - 4000 B.C.E.• The Nubian Civilization begins. Africans The Nubian Civilization begins. Africans

develop agriculture and construction develop agriculture and construction techniques and technology, weapons of war techniques and technology, weapons of war and pottery. Nubians develop the concept of and pottery. Nubians develop the concept of monarchy. Monarchy is a form of government monarchy. Monarchy is a form of government whereby one person is chosen to rule. In the whereby one person is chosen to rule. In the African context he rules with the aid of a African context he rules with the aid of a Council of Elders.Council of Elders.

Syrian- Nubian- Libyan & EgyptianSyrian- Nubian- Libyan & Egyptian

Qustul Incense Burner: Nubian Pharaoh with Crown & Falcon Label.

[4000 B.C.E.]

•NUBIAN WARRIORSNUBIAN WARRIORS

3400 B.C.E.3400 B.C.E.

• Egyptian Civilization begins. Egyptian Civilization begins. Africans develop the world’s Africans develop the world’s first calendar and first numerals first calendar and first numerals and writing system [Medu Neter: and writing system [Medu Neter: Words of God; Hieroglphics: Words of God; Hieroglphics: Priestly Carvings]Priestly Carvings]

PYRAMIDS OF KEMETPYRAMIDS OF KEMET

ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]

• The Egyptians called themselves The Egyptians called themselves Khemetiu or descendants of Khemetiu or descendants of Khem [Hebrew: Cham/Ham]. Khem [Hebrew: Cham/Ham]. They called their country Kemet, They called their country Kemet, the “Black Land” referring to the “Black Land” referring to the soil and “Land of the Blacks” the soil and “Land of the Blacks” referring to the people. referring to the people.


• According to the Holy Bible and the According to the Holy Bible and the Koran, Khem was one of three sons of Koran, Khem was one of three sons of the Ante-Diluvian Patriarch Noah. the Ante-Diluvian Patriarch Noah. Kham’s sons were:Kham’s sons were:

• Kush: Nubia, EthiopiaKush: Nubia, Ethiopia

• Mizraim: EgyptMizraim: Egypt

• Phut: Libya, CyrenaciaPhut: Libya, Cyrenacia

• Kanaan: Canaanites, PhoenciansKanaan: Canaanites, Phoencians

ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]• Sons of Japheth:Sons of Japheth:

• Gomer: CimmeriansGomer: Cimmerians• Magog: EuropeansMagog: Europeans• Madai: MediansMadai: Medians• Javan: GreciansJavan: Grecians• Tubal/Meschech: RussiansTubal/Meschech: Russians• Tiras: ThraciansTiras: Thracians• Ashkenaz: GermansAshkenaz: Germans• Tarshish: SpaniardsTarshish: Spaniards


• Son’s of Shem:Son’s of Shem:

•Elam: PersiansElam: Persians

•Asshur: AssyriansAsshur: Assyrians

•Lud: LydiansLud: Lydians•Aram: SyriansAram: Syrians


• The Greek Historian Herodotus, the The Greek Historian Herodotus, the Roman Historian Tacitus, Sir Arthur Roman Historian Tacitus, Sir Arthur Keith, M. Fishberg, Gerald Massey Keith, M. Fishberg, Gerald Massey wrote that due to centuries of wrote that due to centuries of miscegenationmiscegenation [ethnic group [ethnic group intermarriage]the descendants of intermarriage]the descendants of Kham and Shem became Kham and Shem became ONE ONE PEOPLEPEOPLE..

ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]• The Khemetiu Priests wrote The Khemetiu Priests wrote The Old The Old

ChronicleChronicle, a history of their nation, , a history of their nation, which contained 113 Dynasties covering which contained 113 Dynasties covering 36,525 years. It contained three Dynastic 36,525 years. It contained three Dynastic Periods:Periods:

• 1. Auri-tae1. Auri-tae• 2. Mestraean2. Mestraean• 3. Egyptian3. Egyptian

ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]• 1. Auri-Tae1. Auri-Tae

• They were the Primordial Race, the They were the Primordial Race, the first men, the Africans, the Joudhour first men, the Africans, the Joudhour (Root) & first Divine Rulers of the (Root) & first Divine Rulers of the Egyptians.Egyptians.

• They were from the “Mountain of the They were from the “Mountain of the Moon”-Kilimanjaro.Moon”-Kilimanjaro.

• They discoursed [talked] with the Son’s They discoursed [talked] with the Son’s of God.of God.

ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]• 2. Mestreans2. Mestreans

• They were the people of the They were the people of the Asswan, the Nubian of Asswan, the Nubian of Khartoum in the modern Sudan. Khartoum in the modern Sudan. They were the founders of the They were the founders of the next Khemetic Dynasty. next Khemetic Dynasty. Considered to be Semi-Divine Considered to be Semi-Divine Rulers.Rulers.

ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]• 3. Egyptians3. Egyptians

• They were the indigenous They were the indigenous Khemetiu. They established self-Khemetiu. They established self-government and in 10,000 B.C. government and in 10,000 B.C. limited Asian invasions to the limited Asian invasions to the Nile Delta area. Under the Nile Delta area. Under the leadership of the Southern leadership of the Southern Egyptian Aha-Menes the Line of Egyptian Aha-Menes the Line of the Pharoahs in Kemet began.the Pharoahs in Kemet began.

ANCIENT EGYPTIAN FAMILY ANCIENT EGYPTIAN FAMILY 3000 B.C.3000 B.C.

ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]• The Civilization of Ancient The Civilization of Ancient

Egypt began far to the South of Egypt began far to the South of Egypt in Nubia. The founders of Egypt in Nubia. The founders of the Ancient Kushite Empire to the Ancient Kushite Empire to the South of Egypt for thousands the South of Egypt for thousands of years dominated the of years dominated the Egyptians, the Akkadians, the Egyptians, the Akkadians, the Babylonians and the Assyrians.Babylonians and the Assyrians.


• These people known to the Ancients These people known to the Ancients as “as “The Blameless EthiopiansThe Blameless Ethiopians” were ” were held by the Greeks, Romans, held by the Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, Assyrians and Egyptians, Assyrians and Babylonians as “Babylonians as “The Most Ancient of The Most Ancient of MenMen” and Kush was viewed as “” and Kush was viewed as “The The Ancestral Seat of EgyptAncestral Seat of Egypt”.”.

PHAROAH MENTUHOTEPPHAROAH MENTUHOTEP2085 B.C.2085 B.C.


• Diodorus Siculus [Greek Diodorus Siculus [Greek Historian writing in 100 B.C.]: Historian writing in 100 B.C.]: “The Ethiopians consider “The Ethiopians consider themselves as the most ancient themselves as the most ancient people of the earth, and assert people of the earth, and assert that they began philosophy, that they began philosophy, science & religion.”science & religion.”

PHAROAH TUTMOSIS IIIPHAROAH TUTMOSIS III1479 - 1425 B.C.E.1479 - 1425 B.C.E.

PHAROAH TUTANKHAMENPHAROAH TUTANKHAMEN1361- 1352 B.C.1361- 1352 B.C.

ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]• Ethiopian/Egyptian Firsts:Ethiopian/Egyptian Firsts:

• World Empire/Colonialism World Empire/Colonialism

–36,525 B.C. - 341 B.C.36,525 B.C. - 341 B.C.

• Religion, Science, PhilosophyReligion, Science, Philosophy

–36,525 B.C.36,525 B.C.

• CalendarCalendar

–Solar Calendar 4241 B.C.Solar Calendar 4241 B.C.

• AlphabetAlphabet–Writing System 5689 B.C.+Writing System 5689 B.C.+

IMHOTEP: IMHOTEP: FIRST MULTI-FIRST MULTI-

GENIUSGENIUS

QUEEN QUEEN TIYE TIYE

1370 B.C.1370 B.C.


• Herodotus [Greek Historian]: Herodotus [Greek Historian]: “The Ethiopians are said to be “The Ethiopians are said to be the Tallest, Handsomest, and the Tallest, Handsomest, and Longest lived of all Longest lived of all Humanity.” Humanity.” [[Histories: Book IIIHistories: Book III]]

ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]• Isaiah, Israeli Prophet [734 B.C.]: Isaiah, Israeli Prophet [734 B.C.]:

“…The Land of Ethiopia...at the “…The Land of Ethiopia...at the headwaters of the Nile…The time headwaters of the Nile…The time will come when the Lord Almighty will come when the Lord Almighty will receive gifts from this land…will receive gifts from this land…from this from this Tall, Smooth-Skinned Tall, Smooth-Skinned People, who are FEARED FAR AND People, who are FEARED FAR AND WIDE FOR THEIR CONQUESTS WIDE FOR THEIR CONQUESTS AND DESTRUCTIONAND DESTRUCTION.” [Isaiah 18].” [Isaiah 18]

ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]ANCIENT EGYPT [KEMET]• Count C.F. Volney [Count C.F. Volney [Ruins of Ruins of

EmpireEmpire, 1789]: “A people now , 1789]: “A people now forgotten discovered science and forgotten discovered science and art, while others slept. A race of art, while others slept. A race of men now rejected for their men now rejected for their BLACK SKIN AND WOOLY BLACK SKIN AND WOOLY HAIRHAIR, founded the laws of , founded the laws of nature, religious & civil systems nature, religious & civil systems which still govern the universe.”which still govern the universe.”

EGYPT & RELIGIONEGYPT & RELIGION• The Gods of Antiquity from Greece to The Gods of Antiquity from Greece to

Mexico were Mexico were MEN & WOMEN OF MEN & WOMEN OF EGYPT AND ETHIOPIAEGYPT AND ETHIOPIA. Examples:. Examples:

• Zeus of GreeceZeus of Greece• Apollo of GreeceApollo of Greece• Buddha & Krishna of IndiaBuddha & Krishna of India• Quetzalcoatl of MexicoQuetzalcoatl of Mexico• Zaha of JapanZaha of Japan

EGYPT & RELIGIONEGYPT & RELIGION• Godfrey Higgins [1840]: “…All the

gods and goddesses of Greece were [African men and women]…Jupiter, Bacchus, Hercules, Apollo, Ammon ...Venus, Isis, Hecati, Juno, Metis, Ceres, Cybele were [Africans]…[worshiped] in Rome.”

EGYPT & RELIGIONEGYPT & RELIGION• J.A. Rogers [1952]: “Blacks were J.A. Rogers [1952]: “Blacks were

first worshipped in Greece & first worshipped in Greece & Rome. White masses bowed Rome. White masses bowed down to Black Deities…They down to Black Deities…They appear as gods in Greek appear as gods in Greek mythology. The chief title of mythology. The chief title of Zeus…was Ethiops, that is the Zeus…was Ethiops, that is the Black.” [Black.” [Nature Knows No Color Nature Knows No Color LineLine]]

EGYPT & RELIGIONEGYPT & RELIGION

• Dr. Martin Bernal [1985]: “The Dr. Martin Bernal [1985]: “The Greeks & Romans believed that Greeks & Romans believed that their religion came from Egypt, their religion came from Egypt, and they turned to Egyptian and they turned to Egyptian religion up until about 100 A.D.” religion up until about 100 A.D.” [[Black AthenaBlack Athena]]

VIIIVIII

JUDAIC TRADITIONS JUDAIC TRADITIONS OF AFRICA & ARABIAOF AFRICA & ARABIA

THREE PILLARS OF JUDAISMTHREE PILLARS OF JUDAISM

THREE PILLARS OF THREE PILLARS OF JUDAISMJUDAISM

• 1. ONE WAS BORN OF THE 1. ONE WAS BORN OF THE SEED OF ABRAHAM BY SEED OF ABRAHAM BY THROUGH HIS FIRST BORN THROUGH HIS FIRST BORN SON ISAAC.SON ISAAC.


• 2. ONE WAS CIRCUMCISED 2. ONE WAS CIRCUMCISED ACCORDING TO THE LAW ACCORDING TO THE LAW OF YAHWEH.OF YAHWEH.


• 3. ONE OBSERVES THE 3. ONE OBSERVES THE COMMANDMENTS OF COMMANDMENTS OF GOD AS CONTAINED IN GOD AS CONTAINED IN THE LAW OF MOSES.THE LAW OF MOSES.

ORIGINS OF JUDAISMORIGINS OF JUDAISM

• Judaism is a religion associated Judaism is a religion associated with the people of Israel, which with the people of Israel, which dates back nearly 3000 years.dates back nearly 3000 years.

• Other names of Israel: Judah, Other names of Israel: Judah, Judean, Hebrew, Jew, Jewish.Judean, Hebrew, Jew, Jewish.

ORIGINS OF JUDAISMORIGINS OF JUDAISM• Abraham & The Covenant with Abraham & The Covenant with

God: After a visit from God, God: After a visit from God, Abraham leaves his home in Ur of Abraham leaves his home in Ur of the Chaldees in Mesopotamia and the Chaldees in Mesopotamia and journeys to Canaan.journeys to Canaan.

• Birth of Ishmael and Isaac: Birth of Ishmael and Isaac: Ishmael’s mother was Hagar the Ishmael’s mother was Hagar the Egyptian. Isaac’s mother was Egyptian. Isaac’s mother was Abraham’s half-sister, Sarah.Abraham’s half-sister, Sarah.

ORIGINS OF JUDAISMORIGINS OF JUDAISM• Isaac & the Abrahamic Covenant: Isaac & the Abrahamic Covenant:

Isaac marries his cousin Rebbeca and Isaac marries his cousin Rebbeca and fathers two fraternal twin sons: Esau fathers two fraternal twin sons: Esau and Jacob.and Jacob.

• In Isaac’s old age, Jacob tricks Esau In Isaac’s old age, Jacob tricks Esau out of the firstborn’s Birthright and out of the firstborn’s Birthright and then out of the firstborn’s Blessing.then out of the firstborn’s Blessing.

ORIGINS OF JUDAISMORIGINS OF JUDAISM• Jacob is sent by Rebecca to live with Jacob is sent by Rebecca to live with

his Uncle Laban. On his way there, his Uncle Laban. On his way there, he is visited by God and told that he he is visited by God and told that he will be protected. Jacob then will be protected. Jacob then covenants with God to give him a covenants with God to give him a tenth of all he receives in answer to tenth of all he receives in answer to his blessing.his blessing.


• When Jacob reaches Labans When Jacob reaches Labans place, he meets and becomes place, he meets and becomes enamored with Rachel. He enamored with Rachel. He contracts with Laban to work for contracts with Laban to work for seven years to receive Rachel’s seven years to receive Rachel’s hand in marriage.hand in marriage.


• Laban, however, at the end of the Laban, however, at the end of the seven years give him his older seven years give him his older daughter Leah instead, since it is daughter Leah instead, since it is the custom that the younger the custom that the younger daughter cannot marry before daughter cannot marry before the older.the older.


• Jacob then contracts to work Jacob then contracts to work another seven years to receive another seven years to receive Rachel as his wife [She must Rachel as his wife [She must have been some woman.] At the have been some woman.] At the end of the seven years he and end of the seven years he and Rachel are married.Rachel are married.


• Eventually, Jacob leaves and Eventually, Jacob leaves and returns to Canaan to make peace returns to Canaan to make peace with Esau and to see his parents. with Esau and to see his parents. The night before he is to meet The night before he is to meet Esau, he wrestles until dawn with Esau, he wrestles until dawn with a man until the man agrees to a man until the man agrees to bless him.bless him.

ORIGINS OF JUDAISMORIGINS OF JUDAISM• The man tells him that his name shall no The man tells him that his name shall no

more be Jacob, but he shall now be Israel: more be Jacob, but he shall now be Israel: “for as a prince have you power with God “for as a prince have you power with God and with men, and have prevailed.” Jacob and with men, and have prevailed.” Jacob then asks him what is his name and the man then asks him what is his name and the man does not answer. It is then that Jacob does not answer. It is then that Jacob realizes that he has just seen God face to face realizes that he has just seen God face to face and lived.and lived.


• Jacob/Israel then makes peace Jacob/Israel then makes peace with Esau and sees Isaac before with Esau and sees Isaac before he dies. In time he fathers twelve he dies. In time he fathers twelve sons of his own. His favorite is sons of his own. His favorite is his ninth son Joseph.his ninth son Joseph.

ORIGINS OF JUDAISMORIGINS OF JUDAISM• Joseph’s brothers out of jealously sell Joseph’s brothers out of jealously sell

him into slavery in Egypt. In a matter him into slavery in Egypt. In a matter of years he goes from being a slave of years he goes from being a slave and prison trustee to Prime Minister and prison trustee to Prime Minister of Egypt. Following his rise he sees his of Egypt. Following his rise he sees his family again makes peace with his family again makes peace with his brothers and they all move to Egypt.brothers and they all move to Egypt.


• 400 years later, the descendants 400 years later, the descendants of Joseph and his eleven brothers of Joseph and his eleven brothers are enslaved in Egypt. God are enslaved in Egypt. God raises up Moses, a Hebrew who raises up Moses, a Hebrew who has been raised in Pharaohs has been raised in Pharaohs house, to lead them to freedom.house, to lead them to freedom.


• After leading Hebrews out of Egypt, After leading Hebrews out of Egypt, Moses gives them the Law of God. Moses gives them the Law of God. The central part of the Law of God The central part of the Law of God is the Ten Commandments, which is the Ten Commandments, which bear a striking resemblance to the bear a striking resemblance to the Egyptian 42 Negative Confessions.Egyptian 42 Negative Confessions.


• The Law of God contains the The Law of God contains the social, political and religious social, political and religious duties by which the new nation of duties by which the new nation of Israel is to be governed. Religion Israel is to be governed. Religion is a way of life and shapes all is a way of life and shapes all aspects of ones social, economic aspects of ones social, economic and political existence.and political existence.

GREAT COMMANDMENT GREAT COMMANDMENT OF JUDAISMOF JUDAISM

• ““Hear, O Israel: The LORD our Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: And thou God is one LORD: And thou shalt love the LORD thy GOD shalt love the LORD thy GOD with all thine heart, and with all with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” thy soul, and with all thy might.” [Deuteronomy 6:4-6][Deuteronomy 6:4-6]

GREAT COMMANDMENT GREAT COMMANDMENT OF JUDAISMOF JUDAISM

• The people of Israel were instructed to teach The people of Israel were instructed to teach there children diligently all of the law and to there children diligently all of the law and to tell them that they keep the law in tell them that they keep the law in remembrance of their deliverance by God remembrance of their deliverance by God from bondage in Egypt. The recounting of from bondage in Egypt. The recounting of their history was very important as it is to all their history was very important as it is to all people- past, present and future.people- past, present and future.

ISRAELI HOLIDAYSISRAELI HOLIDAYS

• Sabbath: Begins Friday at Sabbath: Begins Friday at sundown and ends Saturday at sundown and ends Saturday at sundown. Each Sabbath no work sundown. Each Sabbath no work could be done.could be done.

ISRAELI HOLIDAYSISRAELI HOLIDAYS• Passover/Feast of Unleaven Bread: Held Passover/Feast of Unleaven Bread: Held

for seven days during which time no for seven days during which time no bread with a leavening agent could be bread with a leavening agent could be eaten. Used to remind them of their eaten. Used to remind them of their deliverance from Egypt and to signal deliverance from Egypt and to signal the coming of Christ who would become the coming of Christ who would become the sacrifice for mankind’s sins.the sacrifice for mankind’s sins.


• Yom Habikkurim/First-fruits: A Yom Habikkurim/First-fruits: A Harvest offering was made to Harvest offering was made to God the first day following the God the first day following the end of Passover. Symbolized the end of Passover. Symbolized the day upon which Christ would be day upon which Christ would be resurrected.resurrected.


• Shavout/Feast of Weeks: A Harvest Shavout/Feast of Weeks: A Harvest offering was made to God fifty days offering was made to God fifty days after Passover. This is the Feast of after Passover. This is the Feast of Pentecost. The fields were not to be Pentecost. The fields were not to be picked clean but food was to be left for picked clean but food was to be left for the poor and needy. This is the day the poor and needy. This is the day upon which the Holy Spirit was given.upon which the Holy Spirit was given.

ISRAELI HOLIDAYSISRAELI HOLIDAYS• Yom Kippur/Day of Atonement: On the tenth Yom Kippur/Day of Atonement: On the tenth

day of the seventh month of each year, the day of the seventh month of each year, the High Priest of Israel would offer a sacrifice for High Priest of Israel would offer a sacrifice for the nation. Today, it is held by observing one the nation. Today, it is held by observing one day of fasting and attendance at synagogue. It day of fasting and attendance at synagogue. It symbolized the future day of atonement symbolized the future day of atonement presided over by Christ the High Priest.presided over by Christ the High Priest.

ISRAELI HOLIDAYSISRAELI HOLIDAYS• Rosh Hashanah/Feast of Trumpets: Rosh Hashanah/Feast of Trumpets:

Signaled the beginning the New Year. Signaled the beginning the New Year. During the seventh month, first day of the During the seventh month, first day of the month the Shofar, a Ram’s Horn Trumpet month the Shofar, a Ram’s Horn Trumpet was blown to proclaim a gathering for was blown to proclaim a gathering for worship. Symbolizes blowing of the worship. Symbolizes blowing of the trumpets at the return of Christ and the trumpets at the return of Christ and the resurrection of the Blessed Dead.resurrection of the Blessed Dead.


• Sukkot/Feast of Tabernacles-Booths: Sukkot/Feast of Tabernacles-Booths: Held on the fifteenth day of the Held on the fifteenth day of the seventh month to remind Israel of the seventh month to remind Israel of the wilderness wandering of 40 years. wilderness wandering of 40 years. Symbolizes the ushering in of the Symbolizes the ushering in of the Kingdom of God after the return of Kingdom of God after the return of Christ.Christ.

JUDAISM & AFRICAN JUDAISM & AFRICAN RELIGIONSRELIGIONS

• Many parallels can be drawn between Judaism Many parallels can be drawn between Judaism and African Religions.and African Religions.

• Both religious groups have a primary creator, Both religious groups have a primary creator, initiation rites, a focus on the community and initiation rites, a focus on the community and family, a respect for nature and the story of a family, a respect for nature and the story of a great flood.great flood.

• These similarities evidence that the origin of These similarities evidence that the origin of these two groups are somehow interconnected.these two groups are somehow interconnected.


• Monotheism was first brought into Monotheism was first brought into existence by the Kushites. It later existence by the Kushites. It later reemerged during the reign of reemerged during the reign of Amenhotep or Akhenaton IV. Under Amenhotep or Akhenaton IV. Under his rule, religion was changed from his rule, religion was changed from polytheism to monotheism by the polytheism to monotheism by the worship of the deity Amen-Ra or Aten.worship of the deity Amen-Ra or Aten.


• Moses was a great Egyptian Israelite Moses was a great Egyptian Israelite leader who was responsible for leader who was responsible for bringing the Ten Commandments to bringing the Ten Commandments to the Israelites. He was versed in all of the Israelites. He was versed in all of the knowledge and wisdom of the the knowledge and wisdom of the Egyptians, having grown up in the Egyptians, having grown up in the house of the Pharoah.house of the Pharoah.


• The similarities between the Negative The similarities between the Negative Confessions of the Egyptian Pert-Em-Confessions of the Egyptian Pert-Em-Hru, [Book of Coming Forth By Day] Hru, [Book of Coming Forth By Day] and the Ten Commandments suggest and the Ten Commandments suggest that the moral standards of the that the moral standards of the Israelites were used in Egypt and Israelites were used in Egypt and Ethiopia before Moses’ birth.Ethiopia before Moses’ birth.


• While Moses introduced the While Moses introduced the worship of Yahweh to his worship of Yahweh to his Hebrew followers, it’s Hebrew followers, it’s etymology lies with the etymology lies with the Egyptian moon god Yah, Egyptian moon god Yah, other wise known as Ausar.other wise known as Ausar.


• Judaism was practiced extensively in Egypt Judaism was practiced extensively in Egypt following the collapse of the Kingdom of following the collapse of the Kingdom of Judah in 586 B.C.E.Judah in 586 B.C.E.

• Today a Hebrew Temple exists in Cairo, Today a Hebrew Temple exists in Cairo, Egypt.Egypt.

• Documents in synagogue archives in Cairo Documents in synagogue archives in Cairo show the names of old Jewish communities show the names of old Jewish communities south of the Atlas Mountains in Western south of the Atlas Mountains in Western Africa.Africa.


• There is also an Ethiopian There is also an Ethiopian Synagogue in Addis Ababa, Synagogue in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.Ethiopia.

• King Solomon married the Queen of King Solomon married the Queen of Sheba [Ethiopia] and fathered Sheba [Ethiopia] and fathered Menelik I.Menelik I.


• The Queen of Sheba & Menelik I, The Queen of Sheba & Menelik I, returned to Ethiopia with several returned to Ethiopia with several Israeli Priests and a replica of the Israeli Priests and a replica of the Ark of the Covenant. Ethiopia Ark of the Covenant. Ethiopia converted to Judaism.converted to Judaism.


• King Solomon’s Temple, also King Solomon’s Temple, also called the First Temple of Israel, called the First Temple of Israel, was designed according to the was designed according to the ground plan of an Egyptian ground plan of an Egyptian Temple, by Hiram, a Phoenician Temple, by Hiram, a Phoenician Architect/Master-Builder.Architect/Master-Builder.


• King Solomon built the First Temple King Solomon built the First Temple for the worship of the One True God.for the worship of the One True God.

• When Jerusalem was conquered by When Jerusalem was conquered by the Babylonians in 586 BCE, the the Babylonians in 586 BCE, the First Temple was destroyed and this First Temple was destroyed and this caused many Israelite exiles to caused many Israelite exiles to emigrate throughout Africa.emigrate throughout Africa.


• There is evidence of an African There is evidence of an African Jewish presence from the records Jewish presence from the records of Portuguese an other of Portuguese an other Europeans who visited Africa in Europeans who visited Africa in the 14th & 15th Centuries.the 14th & 15th Centuries.


• The existence of Falashas- Ethiopian The existence of Falashas- Ethiopian Jews, have been traced back to the time Jews, have been traced back to the time of th creation of the First Temple.of th creation of the First Temple.

• The founders of the Falashas are The founders of the Falashas are believed to be either descendants of believed to be either descendants of King Solomon or the Israeli Tribe of King Solomon or the Israeli Tribe of Dan.Dan.


• Falasha: means “moved” or Falasha: means “moved” or “gone into exile.”“gone into exile.”

• The Ethiopian Jews, a small The Ethiopian Jews, a small minority in Northwest Ethiopia, minority in Northwest Ethiopia, have been known by this name have been known by this name since the European Middle Ages.since the European Middle Ages.


• The Lemba are the Jews of The Lemba are the Jews of Southern Africa, who inhabit the Southern Africa, who inhabit the Venda territory and part of Venda territory and part of southern Zimbabwe.southern Zimbabwe.

• Some 40,000 Lember have Some 40,000 Lember have Jewish roots.Jewish roots.


• The Lemba, keep Kosher, The Lemba, keep Kosher, circumcise, and have strict circumcise, and have strict purity and funeral laws.purity and funeral laws.

• The tribal symbol of the Lemba The tribal symbol of the Lemba is the Star of David with an is the Star of David with an elephant inside.elephant inside.


• The Lemba and the Falashas are The Lemba and the Falashas are the only known tribes to have a the only known tribes to have a bush piano. Both groups are also bush piano. Both groups are also artisans who are carpenters, artisans who are carpenters, potters, and in earlier times, metal potters, and in earlier times, metal workers. These similarities workers. These similarities indicate common origins.indicate common origins.

THE DECLINE OF JUDAISM THE DECLINE OF JUDAISM IN AFRICAIN AFRICA

• Due to the disapearance of many Due to the disapearance of many Jewish communities, the only Jews Jewish communities, the only Jews in Africa one hears about today are in Africa one hears about today are the Falashas in Ethiopia. Although the Falashas in Ethiopia. Although intermarriage spread Jewish intermarriage spread Jewish influence for a while, eventually it influence for a while, eventually it caused Judaism to dissipate.caused Judaism to dissipate.


• The existence of Judaism was The existence of Judaism was further decreased by Christian further decreased by Christian missionaries. Also, Jews were missionaries. Also, Jews were viewed as a threat by Muslim viewed as a threat by Muslim rulers and consequently faced rulers and consequently faced either conversion or death.either conversion or death.


• The remainder of Africans who The remainder of Africans who chose to continue practicing chose to continue practicing Judaism fled to North Africa, Judaism fled to North Africa, Egypt, Sudan, Southern Africa, Egypt, Sudan, Southern Africa, Cameron and other parts of Cameron and other parts of West Africa.West Africa.

IXIX

CHRISTIAN CHRISTIAN TRADITIONS OF TRADITIONS OF

AFRICA & ARABIAAFRICA & ARABIA

EGYPT & CHRISTIANITYEGYPT & CHRISTIANITY• St. Augustine [Early Christian St. Augustine [Early Christian

Writer]: “…The Christian religion Writer]: “…The Christian religion has existed among the Ancients has existed among the Ancients [Egypt & Ethiopia] and was not [Egypt & Ethiopia] and was not absent from the beginning of the absent from the beginning of the human race until Christ came in human race until Christ came in the flesh.” [the flesh.” [Retract I, 13Retract I, 13]]

EGYPT & CHRISTIANITYEGYPT & CHRISTIANITY

• The Ancient Egyptians were the principal The Ancient Egyptians were the principal contributors to the African Origins of contributors to the African Origins of Christianity.Christianity.

• The Egyptian idea of “The Neter” was the The Egyptian idea of “The Neter” was the origin of Monotheism. origin of Monotheism.

• Pharaoh Akhenaten (1400 B.C.E.) built upon Pharaoh Akhenaten (1400 B.C.E.) built upon this idea with the single deity Ra, symbolized this idea with the single deity Ra, symbolized by the sun.by the sun.

EGYPT & CHRISTIANITYEGYPT & CHRISTIANITY

• The Creation Stories of Ausar and The Creation Stories of Ausar and Auset are the origin of the ideas of:Auset are the origin of the ideas of:

• ResurrectionResurrection• Dual conflicts between good Dual conflicts between good and eviland evil

• God’s sacrifice for humanityGod’s sacrifice for humanity

EGYPT & CHRISTIANITYEGYPT & CHRISTIANITY• The Eucharist of Roman Catholicism The Eucharist of Roman Catholicism

originates with the African Nilotics of originates with the African Nilotics of the Sudan, who believed humans the Sudan, who believed humans became whatever they ate.became whatever they ate.

• The idea of the After-life being based The idea of the After-life being based on ethical behavior in this life is found on ethical behavior in this life is found throughout the “throughout the “Pert-Em-HruPert-Em-Hru”, ”, The The Book of Coming Forth By Day.Book of Coming Forth By Day.

EGYPT & CHRISTIANITYEGYPT & CHRISTIANITY• Amenhotep IV, 10th Pharaoh of the Amenhotep IV, 10th Pharaoh of the

XVIII Dynasty, changed his name to XVIII Dynasty, changed his name to Akhenaten. Akhenaten.

• He began worshipping Aten around He began worshipping Aten around 1400 B.C.E.1400 B.C.E.

•Aten was the Sun God and was made Aten was the Sun God and was made the Supreme God of Egypt.the Supreme God of Egypt.

EGYPT & CHRISTIANITY: EGYPT & CHRISTIANITY: THE MYSTERY SYSTEMTHE MYSTERY SYSTEM

• Ausar raised from the dead Ausar raised from the dead by his wife Auset.by his wife Auset.

• Ausar arises on the physical Ausar arises on the physical plain in the form of his son, plain in the form of his son, Horus and battles his Horus and battles his murderer, his brother Set.murderer, his brother Set.

EGYPT & CHRISTIANITY: EGYPT & CHRISTIANITY: THE MYSTERY SYSTEMTHE MYSTERY SYSTEM

• Dual struggles between Good & Dual struggles between Good & Evil, Light & Darkness, God & Evil, Light & Darkness, God & Devil.Devil.

• Contributions: Divine sacrifice-Contributions: Divine sacrifice-Gods give a physical part of Gods give a physical part of themselves so that Humanity may themselves so that Humanity may survive.survive.

THE IMPERIAL CONTEXT THE IMPERIAL CONTEXT OF EARLY CHRISTIANITYOF EARLY CHRISTIANITY


• Following the assassination of Following the assassination of Julius Caesar (100-44 BCE), Julius Caesar (100-44 BCE), “Dictator for Life,” Rome “Dictator for Life,” Rome becomes an empire ruled by becomes an empire ruled by Augustus Octavian (63 BCE-Augustus Octavian (63 BCE-14 CE) and his successors.14 CE) and his successors.


• As As AugustusAugustus (Revered One), Octavian (Revered One), Octavian is regarded as the “Son of God is regarded as the “Son of God (Apollo).”(Apollo).”

• Under the early emperors, Under the early emperors, Pax RomanaPax Romana (Roman Peace) quiets conflicts, brings (Roman Peace) quiets conflicts, brings prosperity, and expands Roman power prosperity, and expands Roman power throughout the world.throughout the world.

LIFE UNDER THE LIFE UNDER THE EMPERORSEMPERORS

• Unlike the Republican era, Unlike the Republican era, women enjoy many economic women enjoy many economic freedoms, but are forbidden to freedoms, but are forbidden to hold office, can be killed by hold office, can be killed by their husbands if adulterous, their husbands if adulterous, and usually do not receive an and usually do not receive an education.education.

LIFE UNDER THE LIFE UNDER THE EMPERORSEMPERORS

• Politicians are exiled or executed at the Politicians are exiled or executed at the whim of emperors, leading to a decline whim of emperors, leading to a decline of interest in public service.of interest in public service.

• Slaves work at all levels of society and Slaves work at all levels of society and represent approximately 1/3 of Roman represent approximately 1/3 of Roman subjects.subjects.

• Dominant value: Dominant value: pietaspietas (dutiful (dutiful performance of social and spiritual performance of social and spiritual obligations).obligations).

ROMAN RELIGIONROMAN RELIGION

• Polytheistic – Greek and Roman Polytheistic – Greek and Roman deities seen as interchangeable; deities seen as interchangeable; amalgamated into one pantheon.amalgamated into one pantheon.

• Pluralistic – religious diversity Pluralistic – religious diversity generally tolerated, unless seen generally tolerated, unless seen as threat to stability of state.as threat to stability of state.

ROMAN RELIGIONROMAN RELIGION

• Patriotic – religious activity Patriotic – religious activity intended to secure blessings of intended to secure blessings of gods for the state.gods for the state.

• Patriarchal – organized around Patriarchal – organized around male authorities (male authorities (pontiffpontiff, priest; , priest; paterfamiliaspaterfamilias, male head of , male head of household).household).

NEW NEW RELIGIONS RELIGIONS

IN IN AN OLD AN OLD WORLDWORLD

NEW RELIGIONS IN NEW RELIGIONS IN AN OLD WORLDAN OLD WORLD

• As empire grows less stable As empire grows less stable after 200 C.E., more Romans after 200 C.E., more Romans question traditional religion. question traditional religion. “Mystery Religions” become “Mystery Religions” become popular.popular.

MYSTERY RELIGION MYSTERY RELIGION BELIEFSBELIEFS

• Feature Miracle-Performing Feature Miracle-Performing Founders.Founders.

• Offer secret knowledge. Offer secret knowledge. • Promise individual salvation Promise individual salvation

and eternal life.and eternal life.

MYSTERY RELIGION MYSTERY RELIGION BELIEFSBELIEFS

• Develop religious activities Develop religious activities independent of family and state.independent of family and state.

• Focus on savior deities who die Focus on savior deities who die and come back to life.and come back to life.

• Often connected with “exotic” Often connected with “exotic” cultures of Near East.cultures of Near East.

JESUS OF NAZARETH JESUS OF NAZARETH (4 B.C.E.-29 C.E.?)(4 B.C.E.-29 C.E.?)

• Jesus was born poor in Roman-Jesus was born poor in Roman-occupied Palestine. occupied Palestine.

• He becomes a wandering rabbi He becomes a wandering rabbi who healed the sick and taught who healed the sick and taught the Hebrew scriptures.the Hebrew scriptures.


• His teachings included the His teachings included the necessity of moral perfection, necessity of moral perfection, casual attitude toward ritual casual attitude toward ritual purity, “blessedness” of purity, “blessedness” of society’s outcasts, and society’s outcasts, and nonviolence as best means of nonviolence as best means of resolving social conflicts.resolving social conflicts.


• He was executed by the Romans for He was executed by the Romans for being a potential threat to economic and being a potential threat to economic and political stability in Palestine.political stability in Palestine.

• He was identified as the resurrected He was identified as the resurrected MessiahMessiah (Greek translation: (Greek translation: ChristosChristos) by ) by his followers in accordance with the his followers in accordance with the Hebrew Scriptures and in fulfillment of Hebrew Scriptures and in fulfillment of Prophecy.Prophecy.

WHO IS JESUS?WHO IS JESUS?

• … … God’s “suffering servant” God’s “suffering servant” who bears the sins of Israel who bears the sins of Israel (Isaiah 55:6) …(Isaiah 55:6) …

• … … God himself, incarnated “in God himself, incarnated “in the form of a slave” the form of a slave” (Philippians 2:6-7) …(Philippians 2:6-7) …


• … “… “Raised from the dead” (1 Raised from the dead” (1 Corinthians 15:20) and Corinthians 15:20) and “ascended” to God (John 20:17) “ascended” to God (John 20:17) ……

• These images of Jesus gradually These images of Jesus gradually become known as “orthodox” become known as “orthodox” (right-believing).(right-believing).


• Other early Christians hold Other early Christians hold different views of Jesus as…different views of Jesus as…

• … … Teacher of secret knowledge Teacher of secret knowledge (Greek (Greek gnosisgnosis) that only the ) that only the initiated can understand (initiated can understand (Gospel Gospel of Thomasof Thomas 70). 70).


• … … The new god who has come to The new god who has come to sweep away Jewish tradition, sweep away Jewish tradition, including the Hebrew Bible and including the Hebrew Bible and the Jewish God who made this the Jewish God who made this corrupt material world (corrupt material world (Gospel of Gospel of MarcionMarcion 6:17-42). 6:17-42).


• Such“heterodox” (differently-Such“heterodox” (differently-believing) views compete with believing) views compete with “orthodox” views for several “orthodox” views for several centuries.centuries.

THE GROWTH OF CHRISTIAN INSTITUTIONS

• Within three hundred years of Within three hundred years of Jesus’ execution, Christianity’s Jesus’ execution, Christianity’s status changes from obscure status changes from obscure Jewish sect to persecuted Jewish sect to persecuted Gentile faith to official Roman Gentile faith to official Roman religion.religion.

THE GROWTH OF THE GROWTH OF CHRISTIAN INSTITUTIONSCHRISTIAN INSTITUTIONS

• 313: Emperor Constantine (274?-313: Emperor Constantine (274?-337) ends persecution of 337) ends persecution of Christianity and embraces faith.Christianity and embraces faith.

• 395: Emperor Theodosius I (346-395: Emperor Theodosius I (346-395) establishes orthodox 395) establishes orthodox Christianity as empire’s sole faith.Christianity as empire’s sole faith.


• Christian institutions model Christian institutions model themselves on imperial themselves on imperial structures, complete with structures, complete with Pontifex Maximus (High Pontifex Maximus (High Priest) based in Rome.Priest) based in Rome.


• The collapse of the Western The collapse of the Western Roman Empire in 476 leaves Roman Empire in 476 leaves Western Europe sparsely Western Europe sparsely populated, poor, and populated, poor, and vulnerable to invasions. vulnerable to invasions.


• The Eastern Roman The Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire, ruled (Byzantine) Empire, ruled from Constantinople (modern from Constantinople (modern Istanbul), endures in spite of Istanbul), endures in spite of territorial losses to Islamic territorial losses to Islamic forces.forces..


• ““Christendom” (Christian Christendom” (Christian West) loosely unified by rule West) loosely unified by rule of Germanic kings and of Germanic kings and increasingly powerful Pope increasingly powerful Pope (Bishop of Rome).(Bishop of Rome).

WHY DID CHRISTIANITY WHY DID CHRISTIANITY SUCCEED?SUCCEED?

• Roman persecution was sporadic, Roman persecution was sporadic, allowing Christianity to become allowing Christianity to become publicly acceptable in some areas.publicly acceptable in some areas.

• Unlike paganism, Christianity Unlike paganism, Christianity encouraged prosyletization and encouraged prosyletization and conversion, and seemed simpler and conversion, and seemed simpler and more unified.more unified.

WHY DID CHRISTIANITY WHY DID CHRISTIANITY SUCCEED?SUCCEED?

• Christianity offered strong, Christianity offered strong, egalitarian, humane egalitarian, humane community in a mass society community in a mass society driven by class distinctions driven by class distinctions and peppered with cruelty and peppered with cruelty and violence.and violence.

AFRICA & CHRISTIANITYAFRICA & CHRISTIANITY• Today the oldest Christian Today the oldest Christian

institutions are found in Ethiopia, institutions are found in Ethiopia, which converted from Judaism to which converted from Judaism to Christianity in 34 A.D. The Christianity in 34 A.D. The Coptic Church the result of the Coptic Church the result of the evangelism of Mark is all that evangelism of Mark is all that remains of many Christian remains of many Christian institutions of Egypt & the Sudan. institutions of Egypt & the Sudan.

CHRISTIAN COPTIC CHRISTIAN COPTIC ORTHODOX CHURCHORTHODOX CHURCH

• Copt: is derived from the Greek Copt: is derived from the Greek word Aigyptos [Egyptian: word Aigyptos [Egyptian: Hikuptah - House of the Ka of Hikuptah - House of the Ka of Ptah]Ptah]

• Coptic Christianity is based on the Coptic Christianity is based on the teachings of St. Mark and is over teachings of St. Mark and is over nineteen centuries old.nineteen centuries old.


• The Copt St. Athanasius: wrote The Copt St. Athanasius: wrote the Nicene Creed, which is recited the Nicene Creed, which is recited many churches throughout the many churches throughout the world.world.

• Catechetical School of Alexandria Catechetical School of Alexandria is the oldest school in the world.is the oldest school in the world.


• Monasticism [Monks and Monasticism [Monks and Monasteries]: first formed in Monasteries]: first formed in Egypt. Shaped Priests Egypt. Shaped Priests character of submission and character of submission and humbleness.humbleness.


• Many African peoples Many African peoples contributed to the creation and contributed to the creation and development of Christianity, development of Christianity, primarily the Egyptians, who primarily the Egyptians, who gave Monotheism, Nicene Creed, gave Monotheism, Nicene Creed, and the Eucharist sacraments.and the Eucharist sacraments.


• African churches and religious African churches and religious leaders have continued to leaders have continued to influence the Christian faith influence the Christian faith for the last 2000 years.for the last 2000 years.

XX

ISLAMIC TRADITIONS ISLAMIC TRADITIONS OF AFRICA & ARABIAOF AFRICA & ARABIA

THE PRE-ISLAMIC WESTTHE PRE-ISLAMIC WEST


• By 600 C.E., the Roman Empire, once By 600 C.E., the Roman Empire, once unified and in control of entire unified and in control of entire Mediterranean region,was since 300s Mediterranean region,was since 300s C.E., now divided into the eastern C.E., now divided into the eastern empire [centered at Constantinople-empire [centered at Constantinople-modern day Istanbul, Turkey] and the modern day Istanbul, Turkey] and the western empire [centered at Rome, western empire [centered at Rome, Italy] and was increasingly incapable of Italy] and was increasingly incapable of ruling this vast multiethnic territory.ruling this vast multiethnic territory.


• Christianity, now identified Christianity, now identified with Roman power, was with Roman power, was widespread throughout widespread throughout western Asia, northern western Asia, northern Africa, and southern Europe.Africa, and southern Europe.


• The Arabian peninsula was on The Arabian peninsula was on the periphery of the Roman the periphery of the Roman Christian world, but was at the Christian world, but was at the center of the trade routes and center of the trade routes and commercial interests of the commercial interests of the Eastern and Western empires.Eastern and Western empires.

THE PROPHET MUHAMMAD THE PROPHET MUHAMMAD 570 C.E. - 632 C.E.570 C.E. - 632 C.E.

THE PROPHET MUHAMMAD THE PROPHET MUHAMMAD • Muhammad was born in 570 C.E. in the Muhammad was born in 570 C.E. in the

Arabian city of Mecca, which was home to the Arabian city of Mecca, which was home to the diverse religious influences of Christianity, diverse religious influences of Christianity, Judaism, and local Arabic polytheism.Judaism, and local Arabic polytheism.

• In 610 C.E. he experienced revelations from In 610 C.E. he experienced revelations from AllahAllah (name of one Arab deity) beginning (name of one Arab deity) beginning with “Night of Power.” This event was later with “Night of Power.” This event was later transcribed in transcribed in Quran.Quran.

THE PROPHET MUHAMMADTHE PROPHET MUHAMMAD• Muhammad sees himself as the final Muhammad sees himself as the final

messenger of the one God revealed in messenger of the one God revealed in the Hebrew Bible and the Christian the Hebrew Bible and the Christian New Testament.New Testament.

• His persecution by local Arab leaders His persecution by local Arab leaders (Quaraishites: Arab Priests) leads to his (Quaraishites: Arab Priests) leads to his escape (escape (HijraHijra) from Mecca to Medina ) from Mecca to Medina and Abyssinia in 622 C.E., from which and Abyssinia in 622 C.E., from which his followers conquer Mecca in 630 C.E.his followers conquer Mecca in 630 C.E.

ISLAM IN NORTH AFRICAISLAM IN NORTH AFRICA• By 647 C.E., North Africa is By 647 C.E., North Africa is

religiously unstable. In theory it religiously unstable. In theory it is controlled by the Pope of the is controlled by the Pope of the Roman Empire. In reality it is Roman Empire. In reality it is ruled by the House of Heraclius.ruled by the House of Heraclius.

• The political an religious The political an religious uncertainty leave North Africa uncertainty leave North Africa ripe for Islamic conquest.ripe for Islamic conquest.

ISLAM IN NORTH AFRICAISLAM IN NORTH AFRICA

• Due to the efforts of Uqabah ibn Due to the efforts of Uqabah ibn Nafi and the Community at Nafi and the Community at Kairawan by 670 C.E., the Kairawan by 670 C.E., the Islamic conquest had reached the Islamic conquest had reached the Atlantic Ocean and Africa was Atlantic Ocean and Africa was declared and Islamic continent.declared and Islamic continent.

ISLAM IN NORTH AFRICAISLAM IN NORTH AFRICA• In 711 C.E., Tarik-bin-Ziad, and In 711 C.E., Tarik-bin-Ziad, and

African led the North African army African led the North African army which invaded and conquered Spain. which invaded and conquered Spain. The Rock of Gibraltar is named for The Rock of Gibraltar is named for him [Jebel-u-Tarik: The Mountain him [Jebel-u-Tarik: The Mountain of Tarik]. His exploits are of Tarik]. His exploits are commemorated in the Turkish commemorated in the Turkish classic classic Tarik-bin-ZaidTarik-bin-Zaid..

ISLAM IN NORTH AFRICAISLAM IN NORTH AFRICA

• By 732 C.E. the Islamic By 732 C.E. the Islamic Empire was larger than Rome Empire was larger than Rome had been at it’s zenith.had been at it’s zenith.

ISLAM IN WEST AFRICAISLAM IN WEST AFRICA• Islam spread into West Africa due to Islam spread into West Africa due to

the trans-Saharan trade routes.the trans-Saharan trade routes.

• During the 11th Century the Kings of During the 11th Century the Kings of the Empire of Ghana, employed the Empire of Ghana, employed Muslim interpreters, ministers, and Muslim interpreters, ministers, and treasurers. This was important for treasurers. This was important for international relations.international relations.

ISLAM IN WEST AFRICAISLAM IN WEST AFRICA• It was common for the rulers of It was common for the rulers of

the Ghana, Mali and Songhay the Ghana, Mali and Songhay Empires to bring Islam back to Empires to bring Islam back to their people. Although many their people. Although many people did not convert. Some people did not convert. Some rulers only feigned conversion rulers only feigned conversion for the sake of trade relations.for the sake of trade relations.

ISLAM & TRADITIONAL ISLAM & TRADITIONAL AFRICAN RELIGIONAFRICAN RELIGION

• Islam appealed to Africans because Islam appealed to Africans because they could integrate it with they could integrate it with traditional religion.traditional religion.

• Islam also had religious Islam also had religious intermediaries similar to healers intermediaries similar to healers and fetishists of traditional religion.and fetishists of traditional religion.

ISLAM & TRADITIONAL ISLAM & TRADITIONAL AFRICAN RELIGIONAFRICAN RELIGION

• Islam, like traditional religion Islam, like traditional religion also had a sense of community also had a sense of community and spirituality that was and spirituality that was integral to everyday life. It integral to everyday life. It was more than just a was more than just a “religion”.“religion”.

ISLAMIC & EUROPEAN ISLAMIC & EUROPEAN SLAVERYSLAVERY

• European/American Slavery:European/American Slavery:

•Resulted from Kidnapping & Resulted from Kidnapping & Straight PurchaseStraight Purchase

•Was linked to Race & Color.Was linked to Race & Color.

•Social stigma remains after Social stigma remains after many generations.many generations.


• Islamic SlaveryIslamic Slavery

•Resulted from Prisoners of Resulted from Prisoners of War who refused to convert War who refused to convert and from Raids on settled and from Raids on settled communities for the sake of communities for the sake of obtaining slaves.obtaining slaves.


•Was linked to unbelievers.Was linked to unbelievers.

•Generally, once freed Generally, once freed became a full member of became a full member of society; however, Racial society; however, Racial stigma persisted.stigma persisted.

MUSLIMS SLAVES IN MUSLIMS SLAVES IN AMERICAAMERICA

• Many Muslims became enslaved in Many Muslims became enslaved in America during the 1700s because:America during the 1700s because:

• African Wars: rebellions African Wars: rebellions against Muslim leaders. The against Muslim leaders. The captives were sold as slaves to captives were sold as slaves to Europeans.Europeans.


• Kidnapping of Africans by Kidnapping of Africans by Europeans: mostly Muslims Europeans: mostly Muslims because of their mobility. because of their mobility. They often traveled to spread They often traveled to spread Islam and gain knowledge.Islam and gain knowledge.


• Muslim slaves looked down on the Muslim slaves looked down on the Christian slaveholders, because they Christian slaveholders, because they used forced conversion to justify used forced conversion to justify slavery.slavery.

• Christians considered African Muslim Christians considered African Muslim slaves superior to non-Muslim slaves. slaves superior to non-Muslim slaves. Justified superiority by saying they are Justified superiority by saying they are Arab not African.Arab not African.


• African Muslims came from a African Muslims came from a Literate culture, while other Literate culture, while other Africans came from predominantly Africans came from predominantly Oral cultures.Oral cultures.

• Under slavery, learning to read and Under slavery, learning to read and write was punishable by death.write was punishable by death.


• Muslims used their literacy to gain Muslims used their literacy to gain freedom, by writing letters to family freedom, by writing letters to family so they could buy their freedom.so they could buy their freedom.

• They wrote autobiographies, which They wrote autobiographies, which since they could read would not be since they could read would not be changed by others.changed by others.

• They helped spread plans of They helped spread plans of rebellions.rebellions.


• Legislation was passed which Legislation was passed which prohibited the importation of prohibited the importation of Muslim slaves due to their Muslim slaves due to their role in revolts.role in revolts.

WHO IS A WHO IS A MUSLIMMUSLIM??

WHO IS A WHO IS A MUSLIMMUSLIM??• MuslimMuslim: derived from Arabic : derived from Arabic IslamIslam, ,

which means “Submission to the One which means “Submission to the One God.”God.”

• A A MuslimMuslim is “one who submits” to is “one who submits” to AllahAllah (God) through the revelation (God) through the revelation ((QuranQuran) given to humanity through ) given to humanity through His Prophet and final messenger, His Prophet and final messenger, Muhammad.Muhammad.

WHO IS A WHO IS A MUSLIMMUSLIM??

• A A MuslimMuslim is anyone who can say is anyone who can say and believe the and believe the ShahadaShahada, or , or “Profession of Faith”:“Profession of Faith”:

•There is no God, but There is no God, but Allah.Allah.•Muhammad is Muhammad is AllahAllah’s ’s Prophet.Prophet.

THE “FIVE PILLARS” THE “FIVE PILLARS” OF ISLAMOF ISLAM

• ShahadaShahada: profession of faith : profession of faith in in AllahAllah as sole deity and as sole deity and Muhammad as final Muhammad as final messenger. The culmination messenger. The culmination of Hebrew Bible and New of Hebrew Bible and New Testament prophecy.Testament prophecy.


• SalatSalat: ritual prayer five times : ritual prayer five times daily (morning, noon, afternoon, daily (morning, noon, afternoon, sunset, dusk) while prostrated in sunset, dusk) while prostrated in direction of Mecca – customarily direction of Mecca – customarily solitary, but communal on solitary, but communal on Fridays at noon in Fridays at noon in masjidmasjid (mosque)(mosque)..


• ZakatZakat: charity – a “loan to : charity – a “loan to God” representing 2.5% of God” representing 2.5% of one’s income, donated by one’s income, donated by those 16 years and older who those 16 years and older who can afford itcan afford it..


• RamadanRamadan (Sawm): abstinence (Sawm): abstinence from food, drink, sex, from food, drink, sex, stimulants during daylight stimulants during daylight hours of ninth lunar month in hours of ninth lunar month in commemoration of the commemoration of the Prophet’s “Night of Power.”Prophet’s “Night of Power.”


• HajjHajj: pilgrimage to Mecca to : pilgrimage to Mecca to be made by every Muslim at be made by every Muslim at least once in a lifetime.least once in a lifetime.

MUSLIM LIFESTYLEMUSLIM LIFESTYLE

• Dress Code: covered themselves Dress Code: covered themselves completely. Women wore the completely. Women wore the Hijab and showed no aspect of Hijab and showed no aspect of their body. Enslaved Muslims in their body. Enslaved Muslims in America, recreated same clothes America, recreated same clothes worn in Africa.worn in Africa.

MUSLIM LIFESTYLEMUSLIM LIFESTYLE

• Names: In North & West Africa, African Names: In North & West Africa, African converts would take on Arabic Names converts would take on Arabic Names and learn to read and write Arabic so as and learn to read and write Arabic so as to read the Quran in its original language. to read the Quran in its original language. Enslaved Africans in America, despite Enslaved Africans in America, despite having European nicknames, kept their having European nicknames, kept their own name to preserve their identity.own name to preserve their identity.

MUSLIM LIFESTYLEMUSLIM LIFESTYLE• Muslims cannot drink alcohol Muslims cannot drink alcohol

nor eat pork.nor eat pork.

• When a Muslim slaughters When a Muslim slaughters and animal, he must say and animal, he must say “Bismillah” (In the name of “Bismillah” (In the name of Allah).Allah).

THE GROWTH OF ISLAMIC THE GROWTH OF ISLAMIC INSTITUTIONSINSTITUTIONS


• After the Prophet’s death, After the Prophet’s death, power struggles between his power struggles between his CaliphsCaliphs (deputies) lead to (deputies) lead to deaths of fourth deaths of fourth CaliphCaliph, , Ali Ali (600-661), Muhammad’s (600-661), Muhammad’s cousin, and Husayn (626-680), cousin, and Husayn (626-680), Muhammad’s grandson.Muhammad’s grandson.


• SunniSunni (“traditional”) (“traditional”) Muslims: revere first four Muslims: revere first four caliphs and emphasize Islamic caliphs and emphasize Islamic unity through unity through Shari’aShari’a (law). (law).


• Shi’aShi’a (“factional”) Muslims: (“factional”) Muslims: honor Ali and Husayn as honor Ali and Husayn as martyrs and emphasize martyrs and emphasize authority of various authority of various ImamsImams (religious leaders).(religious leaders).

THE ISLAMICIZATION OF THE ISLAMICIZATION OF THE WESTTHE WEST

• 634: Army of the 634: Army of the caliph caliph conquers Mesopotamia and conquers Mesopotamia and Palestine.Palestine.

• 635: Damascus, capital of Syria, 635: Damascus, capital of Syria, conquered.conquered.

• 644: Egypt and Persia 644: Egypt and Persia conquered.conquered.


• 700s: Most of northern Africa, Spain, 700s: Most of northern Africa, Spain, Portugal, Italy, and India conquered by Portugal, Italy, and India conquered by Abbasid Empire, based in Baghdad Abbasid Empire, based in Baghdad (756-1055).(756-1055).

• Within a century of Muhammad’s Within a century of Muhammad’s death, much of the formerly Roman death, much of the formerly Roman Christian world is under Islamic rule.Christian world is under Islamic rule.


• Gradually, most formerly Gradually, most formerly Christian and pagan Christian and pagan communities become Islamic.communities become Islamic.

• Islamic scholars translated and Islamic scholars translated and preserved Greek philosophy and preserved Greek philosophy and science, while Europe was science, while Europe was steeped in superstition.steeped in superstition.


• Christians and Jews were Christians and Jews were tolerated as tolerated as Ahl al-kitāb Ahl al-kitāb ((“People of the Book”“People of the Book”) and ) and therefore therefore dhimmīdhimmī (protected (protected peoples).peoples).

• A tax (A tax (jizyajizya) levied on non-) levied on non-Muslims under Islamic rule.Muslims under Islamic rule.


• Slavery was restricted to non-Slavery was restricted to non-Muslims and children of Muslims and children of existing slaves. Converts to existing slaves. Converts to Islam were emancipated. The Islam were emancipated. The Islamic Conquests also began Islamic Conquests also began the 1000 year Trans-Saharan the 1000 year Trans-Saharan Slave Trade.Slave Trade.

WHY DID ISLAM WHY DID ISLAM SUCCEED?SUCCEED?

WHY DID ISLAM SUCCEED?WHY DID ISLAM SUCCEED?• Culture: Islamic rulers Culture: Islamic rulers

encouraged literature, encouraged literature, philosophy, and science. philosophy, and science.

• Politics: power vacuum due to Politics: power vacuum due to decline of Persian and decline of Persian and Byzantine empires provided Byzantine empires provided atmosphere that allowed the atmosphere that allowed the Islamic Conquests.Islamic Conquests.

WHY DID ISLAM SUCCEED?WHY DID ISLAM SUCCEED?

• Religion: Christian doctrine Religion: Christian doctrine was too complex. Christian was too complex. Christian disputes were too bitter to disputes were too bitter to retain the allegiance of many retain the allegiance of many Christians. Many Christian Christians. Many Christian “heretics” converted to Islam.“heretics” converted to Islam.

WHY DID ISLAM SUCCEED?WHY DID ISLAM SUCCEED?

• Society: in most cases, Islamic Society: in most cases, Islamic rulers were less oppressive rulers were less oppressive and more humane than and more humane than Byzantine or Persian rulers.Byzantine or Persian rulers.

THE AGE OF CRUSADES THE AGE OF CRUSADES 1095 C.E. -1291 C.E.1095 C.E. -1291 C.E.

• By the 11By the 11thth century, the Byzantine century, the Byzantine Empire faced increasing challenges Empire faced increasing challenges from the Seljuk (Muslim) Empire, from the Seljuk (Muslim) Empire, and requested help from the West.and requested help from the West.


• 1095: Pope Urban II urges 1095: Pope Urban II urges Western Christians to attack and Western Christians to attack and invade Muslim held territories in invade Muslim held territories in Southwest Asia in order to Southwest Asia in order to recapture them for Christendom, recapture them for Christendom, offering “immediate remission of offering “immediate remission of sins” to those who die in battle.sins” to those who die in battle.

THE AGE OF CRUSADES THE AGE OF CRUSADES 1095 C.E. - 1291 C.E.1095 C.E. - 1291 C.E.

• 1099: An army of mostly Frankish 1099: An army of mostly Frankish (French) Christians massacres the (French) Christians massacres the population of Jerusalem and population of Jerusalem and establishes independent Crusader establishes independent Crusader states in Southwest Asia, states in Southwest Asia, undermining Byzantine and undermining Byzantine and Muslim power in the region.Muslim power in the region.


• 1144: Edessa (in modern Turkey) 1144: Edessa (in modern Turkey) overthrows Crusader rule and overthrows Crusader rule and returns to Muslim control, returns to Muslim control, prompting second Crusade.prompting second Crusade.

• 1187: Jerusalem recaptured by 1187: Jerusalem recaptured by Muslim forces, triggering third Muslim forces, triggering third Crusade led by kings of England, Crusade led by kings of England, France, and Germany.France, and Germany.


• 1204: Western Christian forces 1204: Western Christian forces capture Constantinople and capture Constantinople and establish short-lived Latin establish short-lived Latin Empire in East (1204-1261).Empire in East (1204-1261).


• 1291: Acre, last stronghold of 1291: Acre, last stronghold of Crusaders in Southwest Asia, Crusaders in Southwest Asia, recaptured by Muslim forces.recaptured by Muslim forces.

• Christian persecution of Jews, Christian persecution of Jews, heretics, and homosexuals heretics, and homosexuals increases during Crusades.increases during Crusades.

THE RISE OF SUFI THE RISE OF SUFI TRADITIONTRADITION

RISE OF THE SUFI TRADITIONRISE OF THE SUFI TRADITION

• Soon after Prophet’s death, Soon after Prophet’s death, some Muslims become critical some Muslims become critical of what they see as of what they see as worldliness and the worldliness and the corruption of the corruption of the Caliphs.Caliphs.

RISE OF THE SUFI TRADITIONRISE OF THE SUFI TRADITION

• Wearing plain blue wool (Wearing plain blue wool (SūfSūf) ) clothing, these clothing, these SufisSufis preach: preach: TawakkulTawakkul (absolute trust in (absolute trust in AllahAllah)… )… which arises from which arises from TawhidTawhid (absolute (absolute oneness of oneness of AllahAllah)…expressed through )…expressed through FaqrFaqr (“poverty,” both material and (“poverty,” both material and spiritual)… which leads to spiritual)… which leads to FanāFanā (“annihilation” of self in the presence (“annihilation” of self in the presence of almighty of almighty AllahAllah). ).

THEMES IN SUFI THOUGHTTHEMES IN SUFI THOUGHT

• As Sufism expands As Sufism expands throughout the Muslim world, throughout the Muslim world, it encounters criticism from it encounters criticism from other Muslims.other Muslims.


• In response, In response, Abu Hamid al-Abu Hamid al-Ghazali (1058-1111Ghazali (1058-1111), most ), most famous Sufi theologian, famous Sufi theologian, defines 4 major points of defines 4 major points of Sufism.Sufism.


• 11. islām. islām (“surrender, (“surrender, submission” to God in all aspects submission” to God in all aspects of life).of life).

• 2. 2. īmānīmān (“faith” in God and his (“faith” in God and his Prophet, Muhammad).Prophet, Muhammad).

• 3. ihsān3. ihsān (“serving God as if one (“serving God as if one were seeing Him” at all times).were seeing Him” at all times).


• 4. ishrāq4. ishrāq (“illumination” of (“illumination” of the soul, leading it from dark the soul, leading it from dark materiality to light materiality to light spirituality).spirituality).


• Sufi teachers (Sufi teachers (ShaikhsShaikhs) and ) and theirtheir disciples ( disciples (TarīqaTarīqa) devoted ) devoted to to DhikrDhikr (“remembrance”) of (“remembrance”) of AllahAllah through chanting, through chanting, dancing, fasting, music, dancing, fasting, music, poetry, and prayer.poetry, and prayer.


• The poetry of Sufi writer Jalal The poetry of Sufi writer Jalal Al-Din Rūmī (1207-1273) is Al-Din Rūmī (1207-1273) is known as “the known as “the QuranQuran in in Persian.”Persian.”

• Rūmī’s basicRūmī’s basic theme: love, not theme: love, not fear, should define relationship fear, should define relationship between humanity and God.between humanity and God.

EGYPT & PHILOSOPYEGYPT & PHILOSOPY• Greek Philosophy is nothing more Greek Philosophy is nothing more

than Egyptian Philosophy. All of than Egyptian Philosophy. All of the Greek Scholars were taught by the Greek Scholars were taught by the Savants of Egypt and Ethiopia. the Savants of Egypt and Ethiopia. When Egypt was conquered by When Egypt was conquered by Greece in 332 B.C. the Greeks Greece in 332 B.C. the Greeks were only then allowed total access were only then allowed total access to the wisdom of Egypt.to the wisdom of Egypt.

EGYPTIAN TEMPLEEGYPTIAN TEMPLE

EGYPT & PHILOSOPYEGYPT & PHILOSOPY• Pythagoras, Socrates, Plato, & Pythagoras, Socrates, Plato, &

Aristotle are a few of the many Greeks Aristotle are a few of the many Greeks who studied in Ancient Egypt being who studied in Ancient Egypt being instructed by the learned African instructed by the learned African Priests. Socrates was executed for Priests. Socrates was executed for corrupting the Athenian youth with corrupting the Athenian youth with the foreign teachings from Africa.the foreign teachings from Africa.

ANCIENT EGYPT: TODAYANCIENT EGYPT: TODAY• Why is this not widely known today?Why is this not widely known today?

– The Conquest, Enslavement & The Conquest, Enslavement & Colonization of Africa by Europe and Colonization of Africa by Europe and Arabia led to the denial of the Arabia led to the denial of the accomplishments of the Ancient accomplishments of the Ancient Ethiopians & to the Ancient Ethiopians & to the Ancient Egyptians being “changed” from Egyptians being “changed” from Black to White in Textbooks and Black to White in Textbooks and Movies. Movies.

ANCIENT EGYPT: TODAYANCIENT EGYPT: TODAY• Many Europeans, Asians, and Many Europeans, Asians, and

Africans have written books on Africans have written books on this topic, but their work is not this topic, but their work is not widely used in Western widely used in Western Education. Since the 1500’s Education. Since the 1500’s there has been a systematic there has been a systematic European European usurpationusurpation of African of African contributions to World contributions to World Civilization.Civilization.

ANCIENT EGYPT: TODAYANCIENT EGYPT: TODAY• Today if one states that Ancient Today if one states that Ancient

Egypt was a Black Civilization & Egypt was a Black Civilization & that Philosophy, Science, Art & that Philosophy, Science, Art & Religion began in Ethiopia, they Religion began in Ethiopia, they will be met with ridicule & denial will be met with ridicule & denial from from All Races of MenAll Races of Men. This is . This is caused by the Eurocentric focus caused by the Eurocentric focus of education today.of education today.

ANCIENT EGYPT: TODAYANCIENT EGYPT: TODAY

• For those that accept the truth of For those that accept the truth of the African Origins of the African Origins of Civilization in Ethiopia, Egypt & Civilization in Ethiopia, Egypt & the World, one question arises:the World, one question arises:

• How have Africans who erected How have Africans who erected the Pyramids, invented writing the Pyramids, invented writing & established philosophy, & established philosophy, religion & civilization fallen so religion & civilization fallen so far?far?

FROM PYRAMIDS TO FROM PYRAMIDS TO ENSLAVEMENT TO GHETTOS: ENSLAVEMENT TO GHETTOS:

HOW?HOW?

XIXIARABIAN & EUROPEAN ARABIAN & EUROPEAN CONQUEST OF AFRICACONQUEST OF AFRICA

640 C.E. - 1994 C.E640 C.E. - 1994 C.E.

THE PROBLEM OF THE THE PROBLEM OF THE COLOR LINECOLOR LINE

• In 1903 Dr. W.E.B. DuBois, African-In 1903 Dr. W.E.B. DuBois, African-American sociologist, historian, author, American sociologist, historian, author, and activist, wrote his famous book, and activist, wrote his famous book, The Souls of Black FolksThe Souls of Black Folks. In this book . In this book he declared that the problem of the he declared that the problem of the 20th Century was the problem of race 20th Century was the problem of race relations.relations.

DR. W.E.B. DUBOIS [1868 - 1963]DR. W.E.B. DUBOIS [1868 - 1963]


• Dr. DuBois: “THE PROBLEM OF Dr. DuBois: “THE PROBLEM OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY is THE TWENTIETH CENTURY is the problem of the color-linethe problem of the color-line,-the ,-the relation of the darker and lighter relation of the darker and lighter races of men in Asia and Africa, in races of men in Asia and Africa, in America and the islands of the sea.”America and the islands of the sea.”


• This problem of the 20th and This problem of the 20th and 21rst Century began to rear its 21rst Century began to rear its head in 630 C.E. with Islamic head in 630 C.E. with Islamic conquest of North Africa from conquest of North Africa from 640 C.E. to 711 C.E.640 C.E. to 711 C.E.


• The Islamic conquest of The Islamic conquest of northern Africa ushered in a northern Africa ushered in a 1000 year period of Trans-1000 year period of Trans-Saharan slave trading. The Saharan slave trading. The Islamic conquest was followed Islamic conquest was followed by European encroachments.by European encroachments.

THE EUROPEAN SLAVE THE EUROPEAN SLAVE TRADETRADE

• The Slave trade began as early as the The Slave trade began as early as the 1515thth century. The Portuguese were the century. The Portuguese were the first major European slave traders, first major European slave traders, followed by the Spanish, Dutch, French followed by the Spanish, Dutch, French and British.and British.

• West African peoples were sold or West African peoples were sold or captured for “export” to the Americas captured for “export” to the Americas and other colonies.and other colonies.

THE “SCRAMBLE FOR AFRICATHE “SCRAMBLE FOR AFRICA• During the 19During the 19thth century, France, Britain century, France, Britain

and other European colonial powers and other European colonial powers fought for the acquisition of African fought for the acquisition of African territory. This feverish wave of interest territory. This feverish wave of interest in the African continent and its resources in the African continent and its resources came to be known as the “Scramble for came to be known as the “Scramble for Africa.” It marked the second wave of Africa.” It marked the second wave of European colonization which began in European colonization which began in the Americas in the 15th century. the Americas in the 15th century.

BERLIN CONFERENCE 1884-1885BERLIN CONFERENCE 1884-1885

• France, Britain, and Germany were the France, Britain, and Germany were the three main Imperialist Powers in Africa three main Imperialist Powers in Africa during the late eighteen hundreds. In during the late eighteen hundreds. In February 1885, the main European February 1885, the main European powers signed the powers signed the Berlin ActBerlin Act, which , which formalized the process of the partitioning formalized the process of the partitioning of Africa. The Act included the guidelines of Africa. The Act included the guidelines of how each country was to define its of how each country was to define its territories. territories.

FRENCH IMPERIAL FRENCH IMPERIAL EXPANSIONEXPANSION

• The French negotiated treaties with The French negotiated treaties with several African leaders from a several African leaders from a powerful military position. France powerful military position. France focused on the military direction of the focused on the military direction of the expansion by going fort to fort and expansion by going fort to fort and taking over control. taking over control.


• By using military means of obtaining By using military means of obtaining territory, they were securing themselves territory, they were securing themselves economically. The French, harsh in their economically. The French, harsh in their administration and attempts to increase administration and attempts to increase their economic footholds, used forced their economic footholds, used forced labour and imprisonment of Africans to labour and imprisonment of Africans to maintain and expand their interests. maintain and expand their interests.


• Whenever the French were able Whenever the French were able they fostered production of they fostered production of groundnuts and cotton and groundnuts and cotton and imposed taxationimposed taxation on the native on the native inhabitants.inhabitants.

BRITISH IMPERIAL BRITISH IMPERIAL EXPANSIONEXPANSION

• Britain’s imperialistic activities in Britain’s imperialistic activities in Africa from 1869 to 1912 had several Africa from 1869 to 1912 had several motives. The public motive was to motives. The public motive was to “convert the Natives to Christianity. “convert the Natives to Christianity. Really, Britain wanted to colonize, find Really, Britain wanted to colonize, find new markets and materials, and spread new markets and materials, and spread the English style of government. They the English style of government. They also wanted to protect their land also wanted to protect their land holdings from German or French holdings from German or French invasion.invasion.


• The Suez Canal: The British The Suez Canal: The British wanted to protect the Suez Canal wanted to protect the Suez Canal in East Africa along with the in East Africa along with the route to the east. Control over route to the east. Control over the Suez Canal provided the Suez Canal provided financial dominance and comfort financial dominance and comfort since it guarded trade routes and since it guarded trade routes and colonies to the East. colonies to the East.


• At the same time, British colonists in At the same time, British colonists in South Africa were interested in South Africa were interested in extending their possessions extending their possessions northwards, particularly since gold and northwards, particularly since gold and diamonds had been found in the diamonds had been found in the interior of the region. One colonial interior of the region. One colonial leader, Cecil Rhodes, dreamt of leader, Cecil Rhodes, dreamt of building a railway right across Africa, building a railway right across Africa, from Cairo in the north to the Cape in from Cairo in the north to the Cape in the south. the south.


• Any obstacles, such as the tough Any obstacles, such as the tough Boer settlers who did not like British Boer settlers who did not like British rule, would have to be brushed out of rule, would have to be brushed out of the way. The Boers were descendants the way. The Boers were descendants of Dutch colonists who had arrived in of Dutch colonists who had arrived in the Cape long before the British. It the Cape long before the British. It took the British two difficult wars, in took the British two difficult wars, in 1895 and 1899-1902, to defeat them. 1895 and 1899-1902, to defeat them.

ANTI-IMPERIALISMANTI-IMPERIALISM

• The “White Man’s Burden” and the The “White Man’s Burden” and the accompanying “civilizing mission” accompanying “civilizing mission” illustrate that European Imperialism was as illustrate that European Imperialism was as much a militaristic operation as an much a militaristic operation as an ideological system. All ideological systems ideological system. All ideological systems have their supporters and detractors. Here have their supporters and detractors. Here is an excerpt from one such group who is an excerpt from one such group who denounced both U.S. and European forms denounced both U.S. and European forms of Imperialism:of Imperialism:

ANTI-IMPERIALIST ANTI-IMPERIALIST LEAGUE 1901LEAGUE 1901

Let us not be misled by names. Let us not be misled by names. Imperialism is not a question of Imperialism is not a question of crowns and scepters, of names and crowns and scepters, of names and titles. It is a system of government. titles. It is a system of government.

Where a man or body of Where a man or body of men...claims the absolute right to men...claims the absolute right to rule a people…. rule a people….

ANTI-IMPERIALIST ANTI-IMPERIALIST LEAGUE 1901LEAGUE 1901

……To compel the submission of that To compel the submission of that people by brute force, to decide what people by brute force, to decide what rights they shall have, what taxes they rights they shall have, what taxes they shall pay, what judges shall administer shall pay, what judges shall administer their laws, what men shall govern their laws, what men shall govern them,--all without responsibility to the them,--all without responsibility to the people thus governed--this is people thus governed--this is imperialism, the antithesis of free imperialism, the antithesis of free government". government".

PROCESS OF PROCESS OF DECOLONIZATIONDECOLONIZATION

• The process of de-colonization (the The process of de-colonization (the rejection and dismantling of the rejection and dismantling of the colonial infrastructure) has, from colonial infrastructure) has, from the perspective of colonized the perspective of colonized peoples, been an ongoing struggle peoples, been an ongoing struggle from the inception of colonial rule. from the inception of colonial rule.

PROCESS OF PROCESS OF DECOLONIZATIONDECOLONIZATION

• Historians and Theorists contend Historians and Theorists contend that the process of colonization that the process of colonization and imperial rule was not simply a and imperial rule was not simply a militaristic venture but also an militaristic venture but also an ideological one. Any attempt to ideological one. Any attempt to resist European rule has resist European rule has necessarily also been both physical necessarily also been both physical and ideologicaland ideological

WHAT DID COLONIZATION WHAT DID COLONIZATION SEEK TO MAINTAIN?SEEK TO MAINTAIN?

• A) A racial hierarchy of white A) A racial hierarchy of white superiority and racial segregation superiority and racial segregation (Apartheid).(Apartheid).


• B) A system of economic domination and B) A system of economic domination and exploitation that benefited the few and oppressed exploitation that benefited the few and oppressed the majority through taxation; forced acquisition the majority through taxation; forced acquisition of lands and the subsequent dispossession of the of lands and the subsequent dispossession of the native inhabitants from their own lands; the native inhabitants from their own lands; the refusal of access and recourse to the very legal refusal of access and recourse to the very legal structure under which one has come to be structure under which one has come to be governed; the denial of basic human rights.governed; the denial of basic human rights.


• C) An indoctrination of cultural C) An indoctrination of cultural superiority through the imposition superiority through the imposition of European languages and, upon its of European languages and, upon its implementation, an education implementation, an education system, at the expense and system, at the expense and belittlement of indigenous belittlement of indigenous languages, cultures and knowledge languages, cultures and knowledge systems.systems.

•BLACK SKIN, WHITE MASK BY BLACK SKIN, WHITE MASK BY FRANTZ FANONFRANTZ FANON

• According to Fanon, the African has been According to Fanon, the African has been taught to regard white skin as the symbol taught to regard white skin as the symbol of a superior culture and civilization. To of a superior culture and civilization. To see the human race in this way is to see the see the human race in this way is to see the world only “through European eyes.” world only “through European eyes.” Ironically, this “Eurocentric” perspective Ironically, this “Eurocentric” perspective includes the way the African is perceived includes the way the African is perceived (as a social subordinate, or worse, as a (as a social subordinate, or worse, as a “savage” to be “civilized”). Thus, the “savage” to be “civilized”). Thus, the African internalizes and accepts as normal African internalizes and accepts as normal the European’s view of him/herself (the the European’s view of him/herself (the African).African).

• This, in turn, produces a form of self-loathing and the desire to efface all that constitutes African identity in preference for European identity. However, by virtue of his/her obvious blackness, the African is denied full and equal participation in white society no matter how proficiently he imitates white society or rejects his own society. In other words, the African is made to desire something he/she can never fully attain.

• For Fanon, therefore, the African can For Fanon, therefore, the African can never be free unless he/she is able to never be free unless he/she is able to reject the “white mask” (the symbol reject the “white mask” (the symbol for seeing the world from a for seeing the world from a Eurocentric perspective). He/She can Eurocentric perspective). He/She can only be free once he/she reclaims only be free once he/she reclaims Black identity not as a symbol of Black identity not as a symbol of shame but as a symbol of shame but as a symbol of empowerment, of selfhood and empowerment, of selfhood and consciousness.consciousness.

• Moreover, Fanon states that the Moreover, Fanon states that the white man is as much “enslaved” white man is as much “enslaved” by this perspective as the black by this perspective as the black man, for the white man can only man, for the white man can only exist in his “negation” of the black exist in his “negation” of the black man. The white man’s sense of self-man. The white man’s sense of self-worth is dependent on maintaining worth is dependent on maintaining the perception of the black man as the perception of the black man as the inferior “other.” the inferior “other.”

• In other words, neither can share a In other words, neither can share a “common humanity” that unites “common humanity” that unites their consciousness. At the end of their consciousness. At the end of his study, Fanon states, “I want the his study, Fanon states, “I want the world to recognize, with me, the world to recognize, with me, the open door of every consciousness.” open door of every consciousness.”

EGYPT: TODAYEGYPT: TODAY• The Priests of Ancient Egypt & the The Priests of Ancient Egypt & the

Prophets of Ancient Israel wrote Prophets of Ancient Israel wrote that the Denial of the One True that the Denial of the One True God, a Belief in the Supremacy of God, a Belief in the Supremacy of Man, Lasciviousness, and a Desire Man, Lasciviousness, and a Desire for material gratification led to the for material gratification led to the Divine debasement of the Divine debasement of the Egyptians & their Descendants.Egyptians & their Descendants.

EGYPT: TODAYEGYPT: TODAY• Scholars today state that the Scholars today state that the

present state of Africans resulted present state of Africans resulted from centuries of conquest, from centuries of conquest, enslavement, colonization & enslavement, colonization & exploitation beginning in 341 exploitation beginning in 341 B.C.E. B.C.E.

REBIRTHREBIRTH• WHAT IS NEEDED NOW WHAT IS NEEDED NOW

IS A RENAISSANCE OR IS A RENAISSANCE OR REBIRTH LED BY THE REBIRTH LED BY THE PRESENT PRESENT GENERATION.GENERATION.

DR. FRANTZ FANONDR. FRANTZ FANON

• ““EACH GENERATION EACH GENERATION MUST FIND OUT ITS MUST FIND OUT ITS HISTORICAL MISSION HISTORICAL MISSION AND EITHER FULFILL IT AND EITHER FULFILL IT OR BETRAY IT.”OR BETRAY IT.”

BIBLIOGRAPHYBIBLIOGRAPHY• What They Never Told You In History ClassWhat They Never Told You In History Class

[1983] Indus K. Kush.[1983] Indus K. Kush.

• Africa: Mother of Western CivilizationAfrica: Mother of Western Civilization [1971] [1971] Dr. Yosef ben-Jochannan.Dr. Yosef ben-Jochannan.

• Nile Valley Contributions to CivilizationNile Valley Contributions to Civilization [1992] Anthony T. Browder.[1992] Anthony T. Browder.

• Destruction of Black Civilization: Great Issues Destruction of Black Civilization: Great Issues of a Race from 4500 B.C. to 2000 A.D.of a Race from 4500 B.C. to 2000 A.D. [1974] [1974] Dr. Chancellor Williams.Dr. Chancellor Williams.