YH00EL18 History of colonisation and decolonisation in (Central) Africa (5 cr)
Cooperation network course
Network: Finnish University Partnership for International Development
Available for: Doctoral studies, Master's students, Bachelor's students and Bachelor's and Master's students
This course is offered through the Network for Unipid. These studies are available for bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree students studying in the University of Jyväskylä.
Description
The course offers an integrated history of Central Africa with attention for political, diplomatic, economic, social, religious and cultural developments. Congo/Zaire functions as an exemplifying case study of transitions in the whole region. Particular topics that are discussed more in detail, include, for instance, the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885 regulating European colonisation and trade in Africa; rubber exploitation; colonial education, architecture and health care; the difficult relationship in Belgium and other European countries with their colonial past; the trade relationships between international institutions and Central Africa during and after the Cold War; the figure of the African dictator; the Rwandan Genocide and the following Great African War.
Learning outcomes
Learning outcomes:
The student
- acquires a critical view on the pre-colonial history of Africa, the coming into existence of colonial borders and the mutli-faceted (hi)story of colonisation and decolonisation in Central Africa
- understands the process of colonisation by putting it in the political, economic, social and ideological context of the time
- is able to assess and explain current (border) conflicts and challenges in Central Africa from a historical perspective
The course develops the following generic skills: Ethics, Internationality, Sustainability and responsibility, Critical thinking, Identification and development of expertise, Interaction and communication
Additional information
Teachers:
University Lecturer Pieter Dhondt
Time:
Autumn and Spring semesters
Offering data:
The course will be offered for students in major and minor and students of continuous learning.
Campus:
Joensuu campus
Further information:
The course is taught in English every second year (2026-27, 2028-29…). Students are highly encouraged to take the course by following the lectures.