They Came Before Columbus: The African Presence in Ancient America (Journal of African Civilizations) by Ivan Van Sertima

 Description:

*Dive into the groundbreaking exploration of pre-Columbian African presence in the Americas with "They Came Before Columbus" by Ivan Van Sertima. This seminal work challenges conventional narratives of history and unveils compelling evidence of early African voyages and interactions with indigenous American civilizations.*

#### Key Features:

- **Historical Revisionism:** Ivan Van Sertima presents a thought-provoking examination of the African presence in ancient America, challenging conventional narratives and shedding light on overlooked historical realities. Through meticulous research and compelling evidence, he invites readers to reconsider long-held assumptions about the peopling of the Americas.

- **African Voyages:** Explore the evidence of pre-Columbian African voyages to the Americas, including archaeological findings, linguistic connections, and cultural parallels between African and indigenous American civilizations. Van Sertima delves into the maritime traditions of ancient African societies and their potential influence on early transatlantic exploration.

- **Cultural Exchange:** Delve into the fascinating exchanges and interactions between African and indigenous American cultures. Discover the impact of African knowledge, technologies, and traditions on the development of American civilizations, from agriculture and architecture to language and spirituality.

- **Legacy of African Explorers:** Learn about the enduring legacy of African explorers and travelers who ventured across the Atlantic long before the arrival of European colonizers. Van Sertima highlights the contributions of these early voyagers to the cultural mosaic of the Americas and their role in shaping the course of history.

- **Historiographical Impact:** Consider the historiographical impact of "They Came Before Columbus" and its influence on scholarly debates surrounding the African presence in the Americas. Van Sertima's pioneering research continues to inspire further exploration and reevaluation of the transatlantic encounter and its implications for global history.

#### About the Author:

Ivan Van Sertima was a renowned Guyanese-born historian, linguist, and anthropologist known for his groundbreaking research on African and African diaspora history. As the founder and editor of the "Journal of African Civilizations," he played a pivotal role in promoting African-centered perspectives in academia.

#### Takeaway:

"They Came Before Columbus" offers a compelling reassessment of ancient American history, challenging traditional narratives and uncovering the forgotten contributions of African civilizations to the Americas. Ivan Van Sertima's meticulously researched work invites readers to reconsider the complexities of cross-cultural exchange and the enduring legacies of pre-Columbian voyagers.