The 5 Most Important Books on African History That You Must Read in 2024

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Reading is fun, not only for the bookworms but anyone else that wants to get lost in a fantasy world, forget the world troubles, and come back enlightened. By coming back enlightened I mean with new skills and energy to handle your daily tasks or make informed decisions.  Among the many amazing genres is history and especially African history. This genre hasn’t been explored that much by readers but it doesn’t mean that there are no literature on it at all. 

books to read in 2024

There are many books to read and different African history books serve different purposes. There are those that will inspire you, those that will make you a proud African, those that will educate you, those that will amaze you, and so on so forth. The aftermath after reading any book on African history is subjective; different readers will receive the information and respond differently. Why don’t you find out? Here is a list of the most important African history books you must read in 2024.

#1. Africa Must Unite by Dr. Kwame Nkruamah

"Africa Must Unite" is a 1963 masterpiece by Kwame Nkrumah, the first President of Ghana and a prominent figure in the Pan-African movement. The book advocates for the political and economic unification of African nations to overcome the legacy of colonialism and achieve true independence. 

Nkrumah argues that the balkanization of African nations, divided by artificial borders imposed by colonial powers, hinders the continent's progress. He argues that only through unity can Africa realize its potential and overcome the challenges of poverty, underdevelopment, and external influence. The book, a convincing one indeed, outlines practical steps toward African unity, including the formation of a continental government, a common currency, and a joint defense force. Nkrumah envisions a united Africa which he names Union of African States (U.A.S) that can harness its vast resources for the benefit of its people, free from external exploitation. While recognizing the diversity of African cultures, Nkrumah emphasizes the need for a common identity and purpose to confront the global power structures that exist on a neocolonial Africa. Over the time, "Africa Must Unite" remains a trailblazer to the Pan-African movement in the continent, influencing discussions on continental unity and self-determination.

#2. Decolonizing the Mind by Prof. Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o

"Decolonizing the Mind: The Politics of Language in African Literature" is a book written by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o, a Kenyan writer and academic. Published in 1986, the book explores the impact of colonialism on African languages and literature.

Ngũgĩ argues that language is a critical tool for expressing cultural identity, and colonial powers deliberately imposed European languages to control and colonize Africans. The central theme is the need to decolonize the mind by reclaiming indigenous languages and promoting African languages in literature and education. Ngũgĩ proves that language is a repository of culture and history, and the imposition of foreign languages erodes cultural identity and perpetuates colonial legacies. In the book, Ngũgĩ also advocates for a literature that reflects the lived experiences of the African people and challenges the Eurocentric narratives that dominated colonial-era literature. The book is considered a cornerstone in postcolonial literary theory and has been influential in discussions around language, identity, and cultural resurgence in Kenya. It encourages readers to critically examine the role of language in shaping consciousness and to actively engage in the process of reclaiming and revitalizing indigenous languages.

#3. The Souls of Black Folks by W.E.B. Du Bois

"The Souls of Black Folk" is a classic work of African American literature written by W.E.B. Du Bois and published in 1903. In this book, Dubois puts a collection of essays that addresses the social, political, and cultural issues facing African Americans in the post-Civil War United States. 

Du Bois begins with the concept of "double consciousness," which he describes as the sense of having two identities, one as an American and another as an African American. He argues that this duality creates a constant internal conflict for black individuals, torn between their own self-perception and society's perception of them. The book also discusses the impact of the Reconstruction era on the African American community and the challenges they faced as they sought civil rights and equality. One of the most famous essays in the collection is "The Souls of Black Folk," where Du Bois introduces the term "the color line" to describe racial segregation and discrimination. He reflects on the psychological effects of racism and the resilience of the black spirit. Additionally, Du Bois discusses the role of education in shaping the future of African Americans, advocating for the "Talented Tenth" which is a term he coined to describe the educated elite who would uplift the entire black community through leadership and intellectual contributions.

#4. The Destruction of Black Civilization by Chancellor Williams

"The Destruction of Black Civilization: Great Issues of a Race from 4500 B.C. to 2000 A.D." is a groundbreaking book by Chancellor Williams, first published in 1971. This historical masterpiece explores the history of African civilizations from ancient times to the modern era, with a particular focus on the impact of slavery and colonialism on the African continent and its people.

Williams carefully chronicles the achievements of African civilizations, highlighting their contributions to art, science, philosophy, and governance. He argues that Africa had a rich and advanced history long before the arrival of Europeans. Williams also challenges the Eurocentric narrative that portrays Africa as a continent that is of less historical significance. The central theme of the book revolves around the destructive forces of slavery and colonialism, which Williams argues it led to the fragmentation and destabilization of African societies. He analyzes the historical roots of these forces and their enduring impact on the socio-economic and political conditions of African nations. Williams emphasizes the importance of understanding African history to counteract the negative stereotypes perpetuated by Western narratives. By providing a comprehensive account of Africa's past, he seeks to empower African descendants to reclaim their heritage and build a more accurate and positive understanding of their history.

#5. Long Walk To Freedom by Nelson Mandela

"Long Walk to Freedom" is the autobiography of Nelson Mandela, the iconic anti-apartheid revolutionary and former President of South Africa. Published in 1994, the book chronicles Mandela's life from his early years, through his activism and imprisonment, to his eventual role as the first black president of South Africa. 

The narrative begins with Mandela's childhood in the rural Transkei region and his journey to becoming a young lawyer. Mandela's involvement in anti-apartheid activities intensifies as he joins the African National Congress (ANC) and becomes a key figure in the struggle against racial segregation and discrimination. The title of the book "Long Walk to Freedom" is symbolic of Mandela's inspiring journey. The narrative accounts for the challenges and sacrifices of the anti-apartheid movement, including Mandela's role in founding the armed wing of the ANC and the subsequent Rivonia Trial in which he was sentenced to life imprisonment. More in the book is Mandel’s life in prison and the unbroken spirit that he maintained throughout the 27 years. Finally it explains the role that Nelson Mandela and other Leader of the ANC played in the transformation of the country from an oppressive minority rule to a democratic and safe country for all.


These are not the only books that one should read or strictly prioritize, but I just recommend them from a personal point of view. The selection was also informed by how they have been influential to me as a person. It is also from the conversations I have had with other history enthusiasts. Make sure you read them. If you have, look for more. They are available on almost all online bookshops such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, etc. African history or Black history is not just a history of the continent or race; it is your history as a person. Remember the famous saying, “knowledge is power.” Well, I believe that the knowledge of self is magic. As an African, when you read a book on African history, you are twice advantaged. You gain power and magic, all at a go. You then become a god or a goddess. 

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