Are Africans Taught About American Slavery in School?
The question of whether African students are taught about American slavery in school is a complex and often overlooked issue. The answer varies widely depending on the country and the specific educational curriculum. In many African nations, the focus is on teaching the history of their own countries, while European and American historical events are only covered to a limited extent. This raises important questions about the comprehensiveness and scope of historical education in Africa and whether the full historical narrative involving African-American slavery is being adequately addressed.
Curriculum Focus in Different Countries
In Uganda, for example, the curriculum is heavily skewed towards European and American history, with a particular focus on events such as the French Revolution, the Crimean War, the Great Depression, World War I and II, and the Cold War. These events are taught in great detail, with little to no reference to the role of African people in the transatlantic slave trade or the extent of American involvement in African history. Similarly, in Nigeria, the educational focus is primarily on Nigerian/African history and affairs, with limited coverage of American slavery. Even in university-level courses, the topic is only briefly touched upon.
One notable exception is the case of Uganda, where a visiting Fulbright professor taught a class in MA literature that included American literature with some emphasis on the slavery era. This exposure, however, came through literature and not as a core component of the history curriculum. For many Africans, detailed knowledge of American slavery is primarily self-taught, often through the internet, books, or informal discussions.
Embarrassment and Subconscious Awareness
There's a common notion that many African leaders and students feel embarrassed discussing the transatlantic slave trade. This embarrassment is rooted in the deeply humbling truth that African individuals, particularly from West African nations, were the primary victims of the slave trade. The role of African societies as suppliers to the transatlantic slave trade is a stark reminder of the continent's historical vulnerability and exploitation.
Despite the political and cultural sensitivities, a significant number of Africans do have a subconscious awareness of slavery. This awareness often comes from visiting historical sites, such as ports where slaves were transported, and discussions about colonialism. Even for those who do not have a comprehensive understanding of the depth and breadth of the transatlantic slave trade, there is a general sense of its existence and impact.
Personal Experiences and Intellectual Influence
The personal experiences of African individuals, especially those who grew up in homes with a focus on intellectual discussions, play a crucial role in their understanding of American slavery. For instance, the author mentions that their father shared many stories of the world, which naturally included tales of enslavement and its far-reaching consequences. Additionally, growing up and seeing black Americans alongside white Americans on TV provided an implicit understanding of the historical context and the resulting societal dynamics.
These experiences highlight the significant gaps in the historical narrative that many African students are taught in school. The education system in many African countries focuses on domestic affairs and recent history, with American slavery often relegated to a footnote or completely ignored.
Discussion and Future Directions
The need for a more comprehensive and detailed history education, including the transatlantic slave trade and American slavery, is becoming increasingly important. The historical narrative should be taught in a way that acknowledges the full scope and impact of these events. By doing so, African students will gain a more complete understanding of their own history and the complex entanglements between Africa, Europe, and America.
Moreover, it is crucial for educators, policymakers, and historians to address the sensitivity and emotional impact of these historical topics. Open discussions and accurate information can help bridge the gaps in understanding and foster a more inclusive and well-rounded historical narrative.