The Greatest Political Books of All Time Set in Africa
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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 394 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.
Genres
The "Africa" category for books encompasses literature that is set in or about the continent of Africa, its people, cultures, and history. This category includes a diverse range of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, biographies, and historical accounts. The books in this category explore the complexities of African societies, their struggles, triumphs, and the impact of colonialism and globalization on the continent. The Africa category offers readers a window into the rich and diverse cultures of Africa, and the challenges and opportunities facing the continent in the modern world.
The "Political" category of books encompasses works that explore the theory, practice, and history of government and politics. These books may cover topics such as political ideologies, political systems, political institutions, political movements, and political leaders. They may also examine the relationship between politics and other areas of society, such as economics, culture, and international relations. Political books can be both informative and thought-provoking, offering readers insights into the complexities of the political world and the challenges of governing in a democratic society.
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Date Range
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1. Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe
This novel explores the life of Okonkwo, a respected warrior in the Umuofia clan of the Igbo tribe in Nigeria during the late 1800s. Okonkwo's world is disrupted by the arrival of European missionaries and the subsequent clash of cultures. The story examines the effects of colonialism on African societies, the clash between tradition and change, and the struggle between individual and society. Despite his efforts to resist the changes, Okonkwo's life, like his society, falls apart.
The 49th Greatest Book of All Time -
2. Waiting for the Barbarians by J. M. Coetzee
The novel is set in a small frontier town of an unnamed empire, where the magistrate lives a life of civil service and relative peace. His world is disrupted when the Empire declares a state of emergency due to rumors of barbarian uprising. The magistrate becomes a critic of the Empire's brutal and inhumane methods of dealing with the perceived threat, which leads to his arrest and torture. As he tries to understand his role in the vast political machinery, he also grapples with questions of power, justice, and humanity.
The 815th Greatest Book of All Time -
3. The Wretched of the Earth by Frantz Fanon
The Handbook for the Black Revolution that is Changing the Shape of the World
This book is a psychological and political analysis of the dehumanizing effects of colonization upon the individual and the nation. It provides a clear, passionate condemnation of colonialism and its legacy, arguing that violence is a necessary component of decolonization. The author also discusses the challenges that newly independent nations face, including the struggle to establish a national culture and the threat of neocolonialism.
The 878th Greatest Book of All Time -
4. A Bend in the River by V. S. Naipaul
"A Bend in the River" is a novel that follows an Indian man, Salim, who moves from the East Coast of Africa to the heart of the continent to open a store in a small, remote town at a bend in the river. The book explores the changes that occur in the town as it evolves from a sleepy outpost to a bustling city. It also delves into Salim's personal struggles and the challenges he faces in adapting to a rapidly changing society, all set against the backdrop of post-colonial Africa.
The 976th Greatest Book of All Time -
5. Wizard of the Crow by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o
The book is a satirical exploration of a fictional African dictatorship, focusing on the rule of a despotic leader and the corruption and power struggles within his regime. Amidst this political turmoil, a self-proclaimed wizard and a rebellious young woman become entangled in the machinations of the state, and their actions ultimately challenge the status quo. The novel combines elements of magic realism with political satire, providing a critique of post-colonial African politics while also exploring themes of love, power, and resistance.
The 1939th Greatest Book of All Time -
6. Native Life In South Africa by Sol Plaatje
Before and Since
"Native Life In South Africa" is a firsthand account of the experiences and struggles of the native African population in South Africa during the early 20th century. The author, Sol Plaatje, provides a powerful and insightful narrative that sheds light on the social, political, and economic injustices faced by the indigenous people under the oppressive system of colonialism. Through his vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes, Plaatje highlights the resilience and determination of the native population in their fight for equality and justice.
The 2025th Greatest Book of All Time -
7. Le Vieux Nègre Et La Médaille by Ferdinand Oyono
"Le Vieux Nègre Et La Médaille" by Ferdinand Oyono is a thought-provoking novel set in colonial Africa, exploring the complexities of power dynamics and racial discrimination. The story follows the life of an elderly African man who, after receiving a medal from the French government for his loyalty during World War II, becomes disillusioned with the empty promises of equality and justice. Through vivid storytelling and poignant symbolism, the book sheds light on the harsh realities faced by African individuals under colonial rule.
The 2306th Greatest Book of All Time -
8. Os Nacionalismos Africanos by Mario de Andrade
análise e crítica
"Os Nacionalismos Africanos" explores the rise of African nationalism during the mid-20th century, delving into the various factors that fueled the movement across the continent. The book examines the impact of colonialism, the emergence of Pan-Africanism, and the struggles for independence experienced by African nations. Through a meticulous analysis of historical events and political ideologies, the author provides a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics that shaped African nationalism and its enduring legacy in the post-colonial era.
The 2519th Greatest Book of All Time -
9. Sur La Philosophie Africaine by Paulin Hountondji
Critique de l'ethnophilosophie
"Sur La Philosophie Africaine" is a thought-provoking exploration of African philosophy by Paulin Hountondji. The book challenges the prevailing notion that African thought is inherently inferior to Western philosophy, advocating for a reevaluation of African intellectual traditions. Hountondji critically examines the impact of colonialism on African philosophy and argues for the development of a truly African philosophical framework that embraces cultural diversity and challenges Eurocentric biases. Through his insightful analysis, Hountondji highlights the richness and complexity of African thought, making a compelling case for its recognition and inclusion in the global philosophical discourse.
The 3373rd Greatest Book of All Time -
10. Petals of blood by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o
This novel tells the story of four characters living in post-colonial Kenya, who are arrested for the murder of three prominent figures in their village. As the narrative unfolds, it explores their personal histories and how they are intertwined with the political, social, and economic transformations of the nation. The book is a critique of the corruption and inequality that emerged in Kenya after the end of colonial rule, and a call for a return to communal values and practices.
The 3447th Greatest Book of All Time -
11. The Emperor by Ryszard Kapuscinski
Downfall of an Autocrat
"The Emperor" is a non-fiction account of the final years of Haile Selassie's reign as the Emperor of Ethiopia. It is based on interviews with his former courtiers and officials, providing a unique and intimate portrayal of a regime marked by lavishness, intrigue, and corruption. This work also explores the dramatic events leading up to the Emperor's downfall and the Ethiopian revolution.
The 4120th Greatest Book of All Time -
12. Citizen And Subject by Mahmood Mamdani
Contemporary Africa and the Legacy of Late Colonialism
"Citizen and Subject" explores the complex relationship between citizenship and identity in postcolonial Africa. The author critically examines the concept of citizenship as a tool for exclusion and domination, particularly in the context of colonial and postcolonial states. Through a comprehensive analysis of case studies from Uganda and South Africa, Mamdani delves into the historical processes that have shaped the formation of citizenship and subjecthood, shedding light on the enduring legacies of colonialism and the challenges faced by marginalized groups in attaining full citizenship rights.
The 4795th Greatest Book of All Time -
13. Exterminate All The Brutes by Sven Lindqvist
One Man's Odyssey into the Heart of Darkness and the Origins of European Genocide
The book is a profound exploration of European imperialism and the roots of genocide, blending travelogue, personal diary, and historical analysis. The narrative delves into the dark history of colonialism, examining how racist ideologies were used to justify the extermination and subjugation of non-European peoples under the guise of civilization and progress. Through a series of interwoven reflections and accounts, the author confronts the violence and atrocities committed by European powers in Africa and beyond, challenging readers to acknowledge and understand the brutal legacy of colonialism that has shaped the modern world.
The 5664th Greatest Book of All Time -
14. How Beautiful We Were by Imbolo Mbue
"How Beautiful We Were" is a novel set in a fictional African village called Kosawa, where the people are suffering from the devastating effects of an American oil company's presence. The story is told through the eyes of a young girl named Thula, who grows up to become a revolutionary leader fighting for justice for her people. The novel explores themes of environmental destruction, corruption, and the power of community and resistance. It is a powerful and moving story that sheds light on the ongoing struggles faced by many communities in the Global South.
The 7049th Greatest Book of All Time -
15. Black and Blur by Fred Moten
consent not to be a single being
"Black and Blur" is an exploration of black studies, performance, aesthetics, and politics. It delves into the intersections of critical theory, social science, and philosophy, challenging traditional definitions and understandings of blackness. The book uses an array of topics such as contemporary art, music, and literature to deconstruct and critique the conventional frameworks of authority, identity, and culture. It presents a new perspective on the complexities of blackness and the potential for social and political change.
The 7111th Greatest Book of All Time -
16. Move Your Shadow by Joseph Lelyveld
South Africa, Black and White
This book provides an insightful and detailed account of life under apartheid in South Africa. The author, a former New York Times correspondent, presents a deeply personal and political narrative, exploring the daily lives of people from all walks of life, from black miners to Afrikaner bureaucrats, and the complex and often brutal realities they face. The book also delves into the historical, economic, and political factors that have perpetuated apartheid, as well as the resistance movements and international pressures that have sought to dismantle it.
The 7342nd Greatest Book of All Time -
17. Praying for Sheetrock by Melissa Fay Greene
A Work of Nonfiction
"Praying for Sheetrock" is a non-fiction narrative that tells the story of racial tension and civil rights struggles in a small coastal town in Georgia during the 1970s. It focuses on the experiences of the African American community who, led by a charismatic shrimp boat worker, stand up against the corruption and racial discrimination perpetrated by the town's white sheriff and his deputies. The book provides an intimate portrayal of the town's residents, their hardships, and their fight for justice and equality.
The 7788th Greatest Book of All Time -
18. Decolonising The Mind by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o
The Politics of Language in African Literature
The book explores the profound impact of colonialism on African languages, cultures, and identities, arguing that the imposition of European languages has led to a form of mental colonization. It advocates for the reclamation and revitalization of indigenous languages as a crucial step towards cultural liberation and self-determination. Through a blend of personal narrative, historical analysis, and literary critique, the author underscores the importance of language in shaping thought and consciousness, urging a return to native tongues to foster genuine decolonization and cultural renaissance.
The 9110th Greatest Book of All Time -
19. Stranglehold On Africa by René Dumont
The Inside Story of the Struggle for Africa's Future
"Stranglehold on Africa" is a critical examination of the post-colonial economic and political challenges faced by African nations. The book delves into the detrimental effects of foreign aid dependency, the exploitation of African resources by Western countries, and the pervasive corruption and mismanagement within African governments. The author argues that these factors have collectively hindered sustainable development and perpetuated a cycle of poverty and underdevelopment. Through a blend of analysis and firsthand observation, the book calls for a reevaluation of international policies and aid strategies, advocating for more equitable and sustainable approaches to supporting Africa's self-sufficiency and growth.
The 9172nd Greatest Book of All Time -
20. Beat the Devil by Claud Cockburn
The Low Road to High Finance
"Beat the Devil" is a satirical novel that follows the adventures of its protagonist, a British journalist, who becomes entangled in a complex plot involving a group of eccentric characters, including a fraudulent tycoon, a femme fatale, and a mysterious Italian prince. The story, set in post-war Italy, is a humorous and biting critique of capitalism, greed, and political corruption, and it is filled with intrigue, deception, and unexpected twists.
The 11321st Greatest Book of All Time -
21. Whole Earth Discipline by Stewart Brand
An Ecopragmatist Manifesto
The book argues for a pragmatic approach to environmentalism, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to address climate change and ecological challenges. It advocates for embracing technologies such as nuclear power, genetic engineering, and urbanization as tools to mitigate environmental impact and promote sustainability. The author challenges traditional environmentalist views, suggesting that a combination of scientific advancement and ecological awareness is essential for the future of the planet. Through a blend of research and personal insights, the book encourages a reevaluation of strategies to effectively tackle global environmental issues.
The 12352nd Greatest Book of All Time
Reading Statistics
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Download