Special Subject A

Module code: HS3761

This module will introduce you to the history of southern Africa in the twentieth century. You’ll explore the social and cultural history of the region, from the expansion of colonial rule at the end of the nineteenth century, to the end of apartheid in South Africa in 1994. Drawing on recent transnational historiography, the module will emphasise patterns of interconnection between the countries of the region, including Malawi, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Zambia, and Mozambique, during of period of profound transformation. You’ll consider major political events and processes, from imperial expansion and settler colonialism, to migration and urbanisation, labour, political struggle, poverty, and development. We will then take a thematic approach to the region’s rich history of music, dance, youth, popular culture, leisure, and religious life. You’ll critically analyse a variety of historiographical approaches to southern African history, and be introduced to a range of primary source materials that focus on the voices of African women and men.