"Circle of Iron" article -
- Historian have suggested that the success of European colonial rule in West Africa was contingent on the pivotal contributions of indigenous elites. Others argue that colonial rule would have been successful with or without the contributions of African elites who joined the colonial apparatus. Which position does the author of the article, "The Circle of Irons" take in this debate and how does she support her position? Do you agree with her? Your response should not exceed one short paragraph.
"Aba Women Riot" article -
- A major historical debate in West African history concerns the role of women in West African societies and how colonial rule reconfigured the precolonial division of labor between men and women. While some scholars insist that West African women were subjugated or marginalized in their so called "patriarchal" societies, others argue that women in these societies had greater liberty and autonomy until the coming of Europeans. We read a short primary source article on the Aba women's rebellion against taxation imposed by the British in Eastern Nigeria. Do you think the West African women depicted in the article are oppressed or marginalized members of their society? Cite specific examples to support your position. What biases can you identify in the author's description of the event and her discussion of the Aba women's relationship with their men?