This class has two specific goals.  One is to provide you with basic factual knowledge of the history of modern Africa and its people. Just as important, however, is the ability to use this information productively.  Thus, this class will also stress the ability to integrate the factual data into a basic understanding of Africa's past and present. Furthermore, the course is designed to develop critical and analytical thinking skills. Rote memorization is not as important as the ability to produce and evaluate arguments based on historical evidence.

I have taught history of modern Africa at various university prep schools in Europe and the United States as well as at several American colleges and universities.

There are many sources that are used for teaching the history of modern Arica in this course. Dr. Brezina studied various primary and secondary sources (articles, books, dissertations, etc.) during his years as a teacher and professor of history that will allow him to interpret the history of modern Africa objectively and address the full range of a variety of peoples' histories and historical perspectives. For example, he will draw from these books: The Fate of Africa by Martin Meredith, A History of Modern Africa by Richard J. Reid, History of Africa by Toyin Falola and Timothy Stapleton, Africa, Its Geography, People and Products and Africa-Its Place in Modern History by W.E.B. Du Bois, and History of Africa by Kevin Shillington.  (However, Dr. Brezina does not require students to purchase or use these books.)