POLSC221: Introduction to Comparative Politics

7.1: Africa

• 7.1.1: Colonial History

  • Al Jazeera: "Africa: States of Independence - The Scramble for Africa" Page

    Watch this video. The famous American political scientist Barrington Moore has argued that there is no single path to modernization. Even in the West, there have been many different models of economic and political development. What determines which route a country should take? In the case of African societies, there is a growing argument that the solution must come from within Africa.

• 7.1.2: African Case Studies

  • 7.1.2.1: Nigeria

    • University of Oxford: Kathryn Nwajiaku's "The Politics of Oil and Identity in Nigeria: A Political Economy of Ethnic Nationalism" URL

      Listen to this podcast. The petroleum industry is the largest in Nigeria, and has been the primary generator of economic growth in Africa's most populous country. However, ownership claims of the country's rich oil reserves between the Nigerian state and ethnic minorities has been a source of civil and often violent conflict. While listening to the podcast, consider the claims made by each side. What are some possible ways this conflict could be resolved?

    • Selina Nwulu's "Oil Exploitation in the Niger Delta and the Legacy of Ken Saro-Wiwa" URL

      Read this article. What have been the repercussions of oil production on the Nigerian environment and how have activists responded?
      

  • 7.1.2.2: Guinea-Bissau

    • Stephen Van Riper's "Tackling Africa's First Narco-State: Guinea-Bissau in West Africa" File

      Read this report. What cultural, geographic, and political factors have led to the growth and institutionalization of the illegal drug trade in Guinea-Bissau?