Africa Audiobooks | History

Africa: The Definitive History of a Continent

Explore the great empires, pivotal events, and rich cultures from over 200,000 years of African history - from an African perspective. The story of the world's second-largest continent is as intricate as it is vast. Starting with prehistory and the fossils left behind in Ethiopia by the earliest humans, this book captures a narrative that traverses great ancient civilizations, from the Kingdom of Aksum to the empires of West Africa and sultanates of the East, and explores history-defining events such as the Transatlantic Slave Trade and the liberation of Nelson Mandela. Written by authors and scholars of African heritage, and with features on African mythologies, tribal customs, the African diaspora, and the key figures in the struggle for independence, this stunning and comprehensive history is vital for anyone who wants to learn more about Africa's rich, complex, and fascinating heritage. Packed with images, artefacts, timelines, and maps, Africa: The Definitive History of a Continent is an important educational tool and an immersive joy to read and browse. © 2022 DK © 2024 DK Audio

Tbd (Author), Itoya Osagiede (Narrator)

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The Real Facts about Ethiopia

Unveil the untold story of Ethiopia in J.A. Rogers' 'The Real Facts About Ethiopia.' This powerful 1936 exposé dismantles colonial stereotypes, unveiling a nation steeped in ancient history, vibrant culture, and fierce resistance. From its pre-Christian Axumite civilization to its unwavering defense against European domination, Rogers paints a compelling portrait of Ethiopia's unique identity. Dive into its rich artistic traditions, deeply rooted religious practices, and inspiring fight for independence. A crucial piece of African history and a timeless call for cultural respect, 'The Real Facts About Ethiopia' challenges colonial narratives and celebrates the enduring spirit of a remarkable nation.

J.A. Rogers (Author), Will Stauff (Narrator)

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To Catch a Dictator: The Pursuit and Trial of Hissène Habré

What does it take to make a dictator answer for his crimes? Hissene Habre, the former despot of Chad, terrorized, tortured, and killed on a horrific scale over eight years in power-while enjoying full American and Western support. After Habre's overthrow, his victims and their supporters were determined to see him held responsible for his atrocities. Their quest for justice would be long, tense, and unnerving, but they would not back down. To Catch a Dictator is an insider's account of the hunt for Habre and his momentous trial. The human rights lawyer Reed Brody recounts how he and an international team of investigators, legal experts, and victims worked across three continents to unearth evidence and witnesses, petition courts and skeptical governments, and rally public opinion. They faced many obstacles and constant threats. Habre fought back bitterly, drawing on secret bank accounts and extensive political connections to preserve his life of luxurious exile. Yet Brody and his allies ultimately triumphed: Habre became the first former head of state to be convicted of crimes against humanity in the courts of another country. This fast-paced, suspenseful book shows that there is nothing inevitable about the impunity that too often protects the powerful and that even the worst tyrants can be brought to justice.

Reed Brody (Author), Reed Brody (Narrator)

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The Slave in Canada

A Dusty Tomes Audio BookIn Cooperation with Spoken Realms The Slave in Canada by The Honorable William Renwick Riddell LL.D, F. R. Hist. Soc; F. R. Soc. Can.; &c, &c. JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT OF ONTARIO from The Journal of Negro History, Vol. V, No. 3, July, 1920, Carter G. Woodson, Editor. Narrated by Joseph TablerNote—This book is ‘read as written'. It was published in 1920. It is in the public domain. Read on the Internet Archive at Archive.org. Lengthy footnotes not read. Carter Godwin Woodson (December 19, 1875–April 3, 1950) was an American historian, author, journalist, and the founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). He was one of the first scholars to study the history of the African diaspora, including African American history. A founder of The Journal of Negro History in 1916, Woodson has been called the “father of black history.' Dusty Tomes Audio Books are public domain books retrieved from the ravages of time; Available as never before, as audio books, for your edification, pleasure, and consideration. This Dusty Tomes audio book was Read Online at Internet Archive. ( https://archive.org/ ) It is replete with footnotes (not read into the audio).

William Renwick Riddell (Author), Joseph Tabler (Narrator)

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Prisoners of the Bashaw: The Nineteen-Month Captivity of American Sailors in Tripoli, 1803–1805

On October 31, 1803, the frigate USS Philadelphia ran aground on a reef a few miles outside the harbor of Tripoli. After hours under fire, the Philadelphia, aground and defenseless, surrendered, and 307 American sailors and marines were captured. The bashaw ordered the crew moved into an old warehouse, and the officers were eventually moved to a dungeon beneath the Bashaw's castle. While the officers were treated as 'gentlemen,' although imprisoned, the sailors worked as enslaved laborers. The crew of the Philadelphia remained prisoners for nineteen months, until the Tripolitan War ended in June 1805.

Frederick C. Leiner (Author), Tom Parks (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Wretched of the Earth

'The Wretched of the Earth' by Frantz Fanon, published in 1961, is a groundbreaking exploration of the psychological, social, and political dimensions of colonialism and decolonization. Drawing from his experiences as a psychiatrist during the Algerian War of Independence, Fanon delves into the dehumanizing effects of colonial oppression on both the colonized and the colonizers. Fanon introduces the concept of 'colonial alienation,' describing the internal conflict experienced by the colonized torn between their indigenous culture and the imposed values of the colonizer. This fracture contributes to a profound psychological degradation of the colonized, necessitating not only political and economic decolonization but also psychological and cultural liberation. The book discusses the role of violence in the struggle for freedom, acknowledging its moral complexities and seeing it as a cathartic force for breaking free from colonial chains. Fanon critiques nationalist movements that replicate colonial structures, emphasizing the need for a genuine grassroots revolution beyond mere political independence. Anticipating challenges post-independence, Fanon warns against reproducing colonial mentalities and calls for a radical societal transformation. He explores postcolonial identity complexities, advocating for authentic cultural expressions rejecting both colonizer influence and mimicry. 'The Wretched of the Earth' has left an indelible mark on postcolonial studies, political theory, and cultural critique. Its insights into the enduring legacies of colonial oppression and the ongoing struggle for genuine decolonization make it a seminal text, influencing scholarly discussions on the complexities of liberation, violence, and identity in the postcolonial world.

Frantz Fanon (Author), Maxwell Anderson (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Zulu War: A Captivating Guide to the Origins, Battles, and Legacy of the 19th-Century Anglo-Zulu

If you want to discover the captivating history of the 1879 Anglo-Zulu War, then keep reading… How well do you think you would fare if you were armed with short spears and cowhide shields against an army with rifles, machine guns, and artillery? In January 1879, a powerful and modern British army advanced confidently into Zululand, determined to kill or capture Zulu King Cetwayo and crush the Zulu warrior army. Days later, the British soldiers were in headlong retreat, having suffered one of the most devastating defeats in British military history. That same day, only a gallant defense of a small outpost at Rorke’s Drift, matching one hundred British soldiers against four thousand Zulus, redeemed British imperial esteem. You may know these two battles, but the campaign as a whole only lasted eight months and was full of desperate defenses, heroic attacks, tragedies, and surprise reversals of fortune. In this audiobook, you will gain a good understanding of the causes, course, and consequences of the war, including the following: - The background and approach to the war - Why though the British government in London did not want a war with the Zulus - The background of the Zulu Empire, including its history, rulers, culture, military structure, weapons, and tactics - The British army of the time, including its structure, weapons, and tactics - The strengths and weaknesses of both sides - The mistakes and miscalculations made by the British commanders as they confronted the Zulus - The challenges facing the Zulus against a modern European army - The course of events during the eight-month campaign - The detail of the two famous battles of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift - The defeat of the British first invasion and the need for a second one Scroll up and click the “add to cart” button to learn more about the Zulu War!

Captivating History (Author), Jay Herbert (Narrator)

Audiobook

Lead You: Notes to Young Africans on Creating a More Representative Continent

Despite several decades of so-called independence from colonial rule, representative government has largely remained elusive in many African countries, compromised by systemic corruption and political tyranny. Widespread apathy from years of living under harsh realities has led to younger Africans speaking out against deplorable leadership and governance that ignore their basic needs and actively rob them of a brighter future. Indeed, the future ought to be brighter for a continent that consistently ranks as having the youngest demographic in the world. Want to be a part of the new dawn in any way? If yes, this audiobook is for you!

Ufuoma Otu (Author), Ufuoma Otu (Narrator)

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Black Africa - The Economic and Cultural Basis for a Federated State

In 'Black Africa: The Economic and Cultural Basis for a Federated State,' Senegalese scholar Cheikh Anta Diop boldly calls for the unification of Black African nations. He argues that colonial borders fractured regions with shared cultures and economies, hindering progress. Diop proposes a unified state for greater global influence, emphasizing cultural revival and a common African language. Though debated, his vision continues to inspire Pan-Africanism and discussions on African unity and development.

Cheikh Anta Diop (Author), Malik Johnson (Narrator)

Audiobook

Ethiopia and the Origin of Civilization

'Ethiopia and the Origin of Civilization' by John G. Jackson is a seminal work that challenges traditional Eurocentric perspectives on the origins of civilization. Originally published in 1939, Jackson's book seeks to highlight the significant contributions of African civilizations, particularly Ethiopia, to the development of human culture and civilization. Through meticulous research and historical analysis, Jackson addresses the historical misrepresentations and biases that have marginalized the achievements of African societies. The title underscores the importance of Ethiopia, delving into its ancient history, kingdoms, and cultural accomplishments. Jackson explores various aspects of African history, including contributions to science, mathematics, and the early foundations of civilization. The book serves as a powerful critique of prevailing Western-centric views and encourages readers to reconsider their understanding of Africa's historical role. Jackson's work is part of a broader movement that advocates for a more inclusive and accurate portrayal of African history. While it has been both praised for its groundbreaking efforts and criticized for its polemical style, 'Ethiopia and the Origin of Civilization' remains a significant text that challenges readers to reevaluate and appreciate the rich historical heritage of African civilizations.

John G Jackson (Author), Troy W. Hudson (Narrator)

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Boer War: The South African War and the Horrors of the Concentration Camps

This audiobook is narrated by a digital voice. The Boer War was a conflict between the British Empire and the 2 Boer Republics (the South African Republic and the Orange Free State) between 1899 and 1902. When diamond and cash cow were found by inhabitants in the Boer republics, the Boers launched effective raids on British stations before being driven away by Imperial supports in the early phases of the dispute. Many Boers did not accept defeat and took part in guerilla warfare in spite of the British's fast profession of the Boer republics. In the end, the British scorched-earth policy pushed the last Boer guerillas to the settlement table, bringing the dispute to a peaceful surface. This book will tell you everything you need to know about this war.

Kelly Mass (Author), Digital Voice Morgan G (Narrator)

Audiobook

Nelson Mandela: The First Black President of South Africa

This audiobook is narrated by a digital voice. This audiobook is narrated by a digital voice. Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, serving as South Africa's inaugural president from 1994 to 1999, held a prominent role as an anti-apartheid revolutionary, politician, and philanthropist. As the nation's first black president elected democratically with full representation, Mandela's leadership focused on dismantling the legacies of apartheid by addressing ingrained systemic racism. Renowned for his charisma, he was often described by historians as a 'born mass leader' capable of magnetizing people. Throughout his life, Mandela was meticulous about his public image, consistently seeking high-quality attire. Critics observed a regal demeanor, and supporters accentuated his aristocratic lineage, enhancing his 'charismatic influence.' In the 1950s, residing in Johannesburg, Mandela cultivated the image of an 'African gentleman' marked by well-pressed clothes, precise manners, and polished public speech. This visual representation, according to Lodge, positioned Mandela as 'one of the first media politicians,' symbolizing a new African era of modernity and freedom. Known for his frequent wardrobe changes, Mandela, after assuming the presidency, became synonymous with brightly colored Batik shirts, later coined as 'Madiba shirts.' Political scholars Betty Glad and Robert Blanton praised Mandela as an 'exceptionally bright, clever, and loyal leader.' Described as a 'master of images and performance' by his official biographer, Anthony Sampson, Mandela excelled at presenting himself in press photographs and delivering impactful sound bites. While his public speeches often followed scripted clichés delivered in a slow, deliberate manner, they conveyed his personal dedication, charisma, and humor.

Kelly Mass (Author), Digital Voice Marcus G (Narrator)

Audiobook

Africa Audiobooks in History