Decolonizing and rethinking the writing of the history of Africa in its relations with the West in the 21st century

Abstract

This study of the historiography of Africa in its relationship with the West has both a historical and an ontological dimension. The main objective of this research is to scientifically deconstruct the stereotypes conveyed about Africa’s history by proponents of Afro-pessimistic discourse, in order to promote a plural perspective on the continent’s polysemic realities. The central problem of this work is structured around a triptych: does the writing of African history require a rationalization, a nationalization, or a universalization of its discourse? From this question emerges a fundamental hypothesis: African history has long been a discipline centered on written sources, and the study of its past continues to be devalued by partial interpretations. The theoretical framework adopted is that of demarginalization, which emphasizes the primacy of seeking African solutions for the continent’s development. This methodological approach is simultaneously heuristic, hermeneutic, historical, and sociocritical. As a major outcome, rethinking the writing of African history allows us to move beyond the beaten path of a sclerotic scientific and intellectual production - towards one capable of breaking down disciplinary boundaries and positioning itself within the dynamics of globalization.