From Egypt to Zimbabwe, Africa is full of ruins from ancient kingdoms and cultures. Here’s where to see these hidden caves and sprawling palaces.
Queen Ndate Yalla Mbodj, the last Queen of the Waalo female kingdom which before the invasion of the French and Arabs was one of the strongest kingdoms
Educators said the history of systemic racism in this country and the contributions of Black people have been erased.
Even as those who oppose reparations argue it is unfeasible or too costly, one British university is proving that it is both possible and necessary to
The glories of African architecture are often shamefully overlooked. Sadly, this is a symptom of a larger problem overall, where the rich diversity and culture of the African continent is largely glossed over in international media. Most reporting from the continent focuses only on issues that reinforce negative stereotypes – those of poverty, disease and war.
The other day, I was watching a documentary about those iconic men who made fortunes in America by bringing industrialization to the country. Of course, the
Ancient Egypt has often been the main reference point when interpreting the past and experience of Africa. But African history and civilization did not all start from Egypt as there were other kingdoms that sprang up to become equally powerful empires. Here are 5 other awesome African civilisations that are not Egypt: RELATED STORIES How...
When the topic of the Moorish influence in Europe is being discussed, one of the first questions that arise is, what race were they? As
In a picture-is-worth-1,000-words kind of way, this image simplifies the profound difference between equality and equity. From this picture people have actually begun to understand that treating…
Learn about Black Seminoles, the Africans who fled enslavement in the southern American colonies to live in Florida with the Seminole tribe.
A twist of fate brought the first recorded enslaved Africans to Virginia in 1619. We trace the origins of this shameful era of American history.
The extraordinary life of George Edwin Taylor and what it can tell us about politics in America — then and now.
In the brutal chaos that followed the civil war, life after emancipation was harsh and often short, new book argues
The sculptor behind the American landmark had some unseemly ties to white supremacy groups
Time and Time again, western history has managed to establish many things that are not true about Africa and its history. For many years, modern-day Africans believed that ancient Africa had no writing history until the first explorers of Europen descent settled in the lands. Contrary to popular belief, ancient African societies did have a...
A famous African proverb says, “until the lion learns how to write, every story will glorify the hunter”. This statement is no truer than it is of our understanding of the size of the African continent. For centuries, the world has been made to believe that Africa is much smaller than it actually is. Why?...
"Why we want to tell the story is because we don't want it to be lost from history."
When Marvel announced in 2014 that they would begin production on a Black Panthermovie, the news was met with the same kind of hype as an Air Jordan release. Not only would black people get a taste of the positive representation they deserve, Stan Lee (who along with author, Jack Kirby, created The Black Panther […]
During World War II, a group of African American sailors was chosen to integrate the Naval Officer Corps, forever changing what was possible in the U.S. Navy.
Prohibited from treating white GIs, the women felt betrayed by the country they sought to serve
Traveling to Africa can be an exhilarating and life-changing experience. The continent is as diverse as it is vast, offering everything from stunning natural scenery to vibrant and welcoming cultures. While there are plenty of adventures to be had in Africa, it’s important to prepare ahead of time to ensure that your trip goes as smoothly as possible. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the things you should know before traveling to Africa. Choose All-Inclusive Travel One of the best ways to get the most out of your trip to Africa is to choose all-inclusive travel. This means that you will be able to focus on taking in all the amazing sights and experiences without worrying about tracking down accommodations or finding your meals. All-inclusive packages are provided by African Ancestry Family Reunions and can save travelers a considerable amount of time and money. Research your destination(s) thoroughly Africa is home to 54 nations, each with its own unique history, culture, and customs. Before embarking on your journey, be sure to research the countries you’ll be visiting in detail. Learn about the local customs, languages, and laws so you’re well-prepared when you arrive. It’s also important to keep up with current events and safety warnings in the area you’ll be traveling to. Pack appropriately Depending on which part of Africa you’re traveling to, you may need to pack for multiple climates. It’s important to bring clothing that’s both lightweight and durable, as well as insect repellent and sunscreen. Don’t forget to pack any necessary medications and toiletries, as these may be difficult to find while traveling. Have all your paperwork in order Be sure to double-check that all of your documentation is up to date before you go. You’ll need a valid passport with at least 6 months until expiration, along with any visas or travel permits required for each country you plan on visiting. It’s also important to make copies of your documents in case they get lost or stolen while you’re traveling. Budget for the unexpected To sure you're financially secure in case of unexpected events, it's always a good idea to have a budget and keep some extra cash on hand. It's recommended to have fresh bills, preferably no smaller than $20 (for us Americans) or even $50. Also, consider getting travel insurance to address any potential issues that may come up during your trip. Take care, stay prepared, and have a fantastic time! Be mindful of cultural differences As mentioned earlier, the continent of Africa is home to a vast array of diverse cultures. To avoid causing offense, it’s important to be aware and respectful of local customs. For example, in various African countries, it’s considered impolite to eat with your left hand, as it’s reserved for hygiene purposes. In some cultures, it’s also important to dress conservatively and cover your head while entering a place of worship. Be aware of safety concerns While Africa is a generally safe place to travel, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety. Avoid traveling alone at night and stick to well-lit and populated areas. Be aware of pickpockets and con artists, particularly in tourist areas. Always keep a copy of your passport and other important documents with you in case of emergency. Get a thorough health checkup for your well-being It’s also important to get a thorough health checkup before embarking on your African journey. Your healthcare provider should assess your risk of illnesses and advise you on any additional preventive measures you need to take. It is also important to travel with a first-aid kit with necessary medications as well as insect repellent and sunscreen for protection. Get the proper vaccines Before heading to Africa, be sure to check with your doctor and get the necessary vaccinations for the countries you will visit. Many countries in Africa require specific vaccinations for travelers, depending on the region within the continent you plan to visit. One size does not fit all when it comes to vaccines for travelers. Here are the most commonly recommended shots for travelers going to Africa, but you should always consult a physician: 1. Hepatitis A and B 2. Yellow Fever 3. Malaria Pills 4. Routine Vaccines Other vaccines such as Typhoid Fever, Polio, Meningitis and Rabies may be recommended. Embrace the experience While there may be certain challenges and adjustments to make while traveling in Africa, it’s important to approach the experience with an open mind and a sense of adventure. Take the time to interact with locals, try new foods, and immerse yourself in the local culture. This will not only make your trip more enjoyable, but it will also help you to learn and grow as an individual. Conclusion Traveling to Africa can be a truly unforgettable experience, but it’s important to prepare ahead of time to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. By thoroughly researching your destination, packing appropriately, being mindful of cultural differences, being aware of safety concerns, and embracing the experience, you can make the most of your journey and create memories that will last a lifetime. For the added experience, remember African Ancestry Travel offers an all-inclusive travel experience that you will never forget.
The Kansas‑Nebraska Act was an 1854 bill that allowed settlers of Kansas and Nebraska to decide whether slavery would be allowed within their state's borders. The conflicts that arose between pro‑slavery and anti‑slavery settlers in the aftermath of the act’s passage led to the period of violence known as Bleeding Kansas, and contributed to unrest that led to the American Civil War (1861‑65).
Discover the remarkable innovations of black inventors, whose ideas and inventions changed the course of history and continue to impact our world today.
The Museum of Black Civilizations is set to open today (Dec. 6) in Senegal.
George Orwell remarked that “the general consensus of opinion is that the only American soldiers with any manners are the Negroes.” Allied military bases
For many years, Africans were forced to believe that their ancestors and forefathers were easily taken into slavery in the Americas and other parts of the world. In recent times, researches by Africans and black people all over the world are slowly changing the narrative and letting the world know that many Africans who were...
Even before the internet came to spread myth and falsehood with extraordinary speed legends and myths became a part of American history. Today myths spread unchecked. One of the reasons for their growth is sloppy research, leading to circular reporting, with unconfirmed and inaccurate accounts appearing on multiple sites, citing…
Four hundred years have passed since the first enslaved people arrived in the US. Here are some famous buildings that would not exist without them.
These African American heroes battled the Nazis, but were still treated as second‑class citizens in their home country.
In The Black Panthers, director Stanley Nelson explores the group's rise to prominence, including early efforts to address police brutality in Oakland, Calif.
Common map projections warp our view of the globe. This graphic reveals the true size of Africa, which could fit the U.S., China, India, and more.
A man named Robert Smalls escaped slavery, along with his family and other slaves, by stealing a Confederate ship and was later elected to the U.S. House of Representatives.
The excitement of Ghana's ‘Year of Return’ marks an opportunity to explore a whole continent of natural wonders and breathtaking scenery.
These entrails identified safe venues for Black musicians during the Jim Crow era.
Fredi Washington embraced her race at the height of Jim Crow.
Once widely celebrated U.S. rapper-producer Kanye West has struck a nerve with many of his recent tweets. While many of his tweets have been concerning (his love for U.S. president Trump?), his recent spats suggesting that slavery is a choice that was made by slaves – to stay in slavery – is outright infuriating. “When...
As long as tribes are denied the right to control their own resources, they will remain locked in poverty and dependence.
The Greenwood neighborhood in Tulsa, Oklahoma, housed one of the most successful Black economies in American history. The area is, now, commonly referred
In 1970, a group of Black Syracuse University football players took a stand against racial injustice. Though many of the 'Syracuse 8' had received interest from NFL scouts before the boycott, none was ever signed to an NFL team.