Journey through time: Understanding Africa's History
Introduction: A Journey Through Time – Understanding Africa’s History
Dear Young Scholars,
Before we begin our journey together through the powerful and beautiful history of Africa, I want to share something personal with you.
I grew up in the 1950s and 60s, a time when schools rarely taught us about our African roots—about where we truly come from or how much we have contributed to the world. But I had a grandmother who made sure I knew more. In a time when very few families had access to this kind of knowledge, my grandmother made it her mission to fill our home with wisdom. She made sure we had books—Black encyclopedias and African history texts—so we could learn the truth about who we are.
She would always say, “Knowledge is power. And once you have that power, no one and nothing can ever take it away from you.” I’ve never forgotten those words.
Even today, many Black and Brown students don’t get the full story about their history. Too often, what’s taught in schools starts with slavery—as if that’s where our story began. But our story begins long before that. It begins with greatness. With African empires, inventors, kings and queens, artists, scholars, warriors, and freedom fighters who shaped the world.
That’s why I wrote this book—for you.
This is your book, your journey, your truth. It was created so that you—our youth—can learn about the greatness from which you come and stand tall in the knowledge of your heritage. I want you to feel proud, powerful and prepared to walk into your future with confidence and purpose.
Through these pages, you’ll explore ancient lands, meet wise and courageous leaders, and uncover stories that have been hidden for far too long. As you learn, remember: you are not just reading history—you are connecting to your legacy.
Let this book be your spark. Let it awaken something strong inside of you. Because the more you know about who you are, the stronger you become—and the more unstoppable your future will be.