Human dignity in Africa: sketching the historical context

This article points out the notion of 'Africa' is notoriously complex and should be used with circumspection. It then proceeds to sketch the major historical forces that shaped large parts of the African continent as we know it today: The Atlantic slave trade; colonialism, post-colonial mis-rule, and the creation of a global economic system. These histories should be kept in mind when one reflects theologically about human dignity in relation to Africa.