Dissertation Writers: What historical circumstances have fostered failure and hindered success in the colonial and postcolonial periods?
In Afrique Je te Plumerai, the Cameroonian filmmaker, Jean Marie Teno, asked the question: “How can a country composed of well-structured traditional societies fail to succeed as a state?” Thinking about specific African countries that we have studied, and incorporating all relevant videos, readings, and primary documents – especially from Mods 4, 5, and 6,how would you respond to Teno’s question? Think about your response in political, economic, and socio-cultural terms and bring in specific examples. What historical circumstances have fostered failure and hindered success in the colonial and postcolonial periods? Don’t forget that there are a number of primary documents mentioned within the books you read. Also, remember, Africa is NOT a country and you should be wary of talking about “Africans” in the general sense too often. Different things happened in different places at different times. Be sure to analyze and discuss these differences.
