Unit Two: Studying Africa through the Social Studies

Module 7B: African History, the Era of Global Encroachment

Teacher's Edition

Overview:

The impact that European involvement has had on Africa since the 15th century CE is essential to understanding Africa's history during this period and contemporary issues in Africa. Historians refer to the period from the 15th century to the present as the era of modern history. Beginning in the 15th century, Europeans became involved in trade and exploration in Africa. This developed into the Atlantic Slave Trade, one of the most horrific and world-altering episodes in African history. European interest in Africa continued even as the Atlantic Slave Trade was coming to an end, leading European nations to carve up the African continent into colonies. The impact of these hundreds of years of European involvement significantly influenced the state of African nations when they finally achieved independence in the 20th century. However, it is important to realize that European involvement in Africa is not the only important factor to look at in Africa's history. African history in the last 500 years is very rich and diverse-a period of immense interaction within the continent and on a global scale. This lesson highlights the impact of Europe on Africa, but bear in mind that while this impact is very significant, it is not the only factor in Africa's more recent history.

Activities:

1. The Atlantic Slave Trade (Engage)
2. Colonial Exploration and Conquest in Africa (Explore)
3. The Practice and Legacy of Colonialism (Expand)
4. Resistance, Nationalism and Independence (Explain)

Module Worksheets

Printable Resources

Suggested Readings and Historical Sources

Begin Module 7B with Activity One.