Power and Hierarchy in Pre-Colonial Africa

3 units

Africa in the pre-colonial period was the birthplace of numerous early civilizations. This course will draw from classic and contemporary approaches to the evolution of social complexity to explore how and why such societies emerged. Focusing on the period prior to the 19th century, participants will examine the nature of such societies and common factors leading to their evolution. Attention will also be directed towards understanding variability in African complex societies, as well as factors inhibiting the development of stable political hierarchies in some regions. Examples will be drawn from ethnographic, historical and archaeological sources where relevant. A previous introductory course in Anthropology, African Studies, or African History is recommended.