African History: Volume III

Author: El Fasi
Publisher:
Publication Date: 1993-12-01
Features: The third volume of UNESCO's General History of Africa, which elaborates on the history of Africa from the 7th to the 11th centuries. During this period, two movements had significant and lasting impacts on African history in terms of culture, politics, and economics: the enhancement and spread of Islamic influence and its interaction with traditional African cultures in the north and west; and the expansion of the Bantu people in southern Africa. This volume first examines Africa within the context of world history in the early 7th century, then explores the general impact of the Islamic penetration; the continuous expansion of Bantu-speaking peoples; and the development and growth of civilizations in the Sudan region of West Africa. Subsequent chapters discuss in detail the Islamic dynasties of North Africa and their extensive interactions; Christian Nubia; civilizations in the tropical grasslands, forests, and coastal regions of West Africa; the Horn of Africa; the coastal and inland regions of East Africa; Central Africa; Southern Africa; and the internal development and international interactions of Madagascar. The concluding two chapters are: Africans in Asia; an exploration of Africa's international relations at the time and the spread of technology and ideas in Africa; and a comprehensive evaluation of the overall impact of this period on African history. Each chapter is accompanied by black-and-white photographs, maps, and illustrations. The text includes numerous notes, and the book also provides a substantial bibliography and reference list related to this period.