Afrocentrism

In this provocative study, Stephen Howe traces the sources and ancestries of the Afrocentric movement, and closely analyses the writings of its leading proponents. Hard-hitting yet subtle and scholarly in its appraisal of Afrocentric ideas, and based on wide-ranging research in the histories both of Afro-America and of Africa itself, Afrocentrism not only demolishes the mythical “history” taught by black ultra-nationalists but suggests paths towards a true historical consciousness of Africa and its diaspora.“The bravest work to appear from the academy in years.”—Financial Times Books of the Year (1998)

“Precise and courageous ... Howe’s book is a landmark.”—Brian Appleyard, Sunday Times

“A spirited, meticulously researched polemic ... With unrelenting energy and intellectual rigour, Howe traces the history and development of Afrocentric ideas.”—Kate Teltscher, Guardian

“Stephen Howe’s candid book goes right to the heart of one of the most vexing of contemporary America’s problems ... A great service for all who are interested in the intellectual study of race and racism in the US.”—Caryl Phillips, Financial TimesStephen Howe is Professor in the History and Culture of Colonialism at Bristol University.