Africa: From Neocolonialism to Independence
Almost every country in Africa was colonized by Europe. Today, while nominally sovereign many of these countries are in the clutches of the big international banks. The old colonial masters Britain and France still have a foothold in Africa but the U.S. has been pushing them aside, moving in to capture resources and markets. Washington has established an Africa Command, deployed troops, and built a string of bases. But France won’t let go of its grip on its former colonies. The coup in Niger, a former French colony, is not your run-of-the-mill coup. It must be understood in the context of widespread discontent with ruling elites and their collaboration with imperialism. Genuine independence is still far off for Niger and other countries in the Sahel region of West and Central Africa.
Speaker
Vijay Prashad
Vijay Prashad is an internationally renowned historian and journalist. He is the director of Tricontinental: Institute for Social Research and chief correspondent for Globetrotter. He is the author of many books including The Darker Nations: A People’s History of the Third World and Washington Bullets: CIA, Coups, and Assassinations.
From a listener in Thailand –
The interview with Vijay Prashad about Africa was super informative.
NM Listener –
It was so great to have AR and the perspectives it brings into my home. Last night’s program with Vijay Prashad made me feel gratitude for the sanity with which he speaks. Thanks a million.
S Mills –
This was an EXCELLENT interview. It was very insightful and easy to follow and understand, especially for listeners like me who do not have a background in political science. This interview illuminated the current situation in Niger and includes a contrast between a General’s Coup (e.g. Pinochet in Chile) vs. a Colonel’s Coup (e.g. Gaddafi in Libya).