Muslim Societies in African History (New Approaches to African History, Series Number 2) - Softcover

Robinson, David

Softcover

ISBN 10: 052153366X ISBN 13: 9780521533669

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2004

This book examines a series of processes (Islamization, Arabization, Africanization) and case studies from the Muslim societies of Africa over the last thousand years. In contrast to traditions suggesting that Islam did not take root in Africa, David Robinson depicts the complex struggles of Muslims throughout the continent: in Morocco and the Hausaland region of Nigeria; the "pagan" societies of Ashanti (Ghana) and Buganda (Uganda); and the ostensibly Christian state of Ethiopia. "Further reading" sections suggest how undergraduate readers can pursue research, and illustrations and maps supplement the text.

About the Author:

David Robinson and Mary Ann DiSpirito have carefully selected over 200 images, most of which are previously unpublished, that illustrate the many changes that Burlington has endured since the 1860s. Included in Burlington Volume II are images of the city that date prior to the 1860s, when our ancestors depended on sketches and engravings to preserve memories. DiSpirito is the author of several short stories and numerous magazine articles in regional and national publications, while Robinson has
written several books and many magazine articles. The combination of fascinating images and informative captions will make Burlington Volume II a treasured addition to the personal libraries of residents and visitors for years to come.

Review:

"Undoubtedly, the importance of this publication goes beyond its uniqueness as the first undergraduate textbook to cover the historical spread and appropriation of Islam in Africa in such a comprehensive manner....The greatest strength of Robinson's case studies lies in the questions they raise, questions that are still acutely relevant to Muslim communities today and are at the center of global debates about Islam, both inside and outside Muslim communities."-Rahma Bavelaar, IslamOnline.net