LFU:online

Acquisition of skills for dealing with historic sources and studies critically, as well as the competence to present the newly-gained knowledge verbally and/or in writing; Acquisition of the competence to apply methods of auxiliary sciences.

The early modern Kingdom of Kongo (15th–18th century) was one of Africa’s most powerful political centers and a key player in the Atlantic world. Through close diplomatic ties with Portugal, Spain, and the Vatican, as well as its strategic role in the transatlantic slave trade, Kongo became a focal point of intense cultural, religious, and economic exchanges. Following the conversion of Manikongo Nzinga a Nkuwu (João I) and much of the elite to Christianity in 1491, the kingdom integrated Portuguese language, aesthetics, and goods into its ruling culture, creating a unique synthesis of local traditions and global influences.

In this course, we will analyze a wide variety of sources, including letters from Kongo’s rulers, missionary reports, travel and trade records, early modern encyclopedias, literary adaptations, and visual materials such as maps, portraits, and prints. Particular emphasis will be placed on source criticism: How did power dynamics shape the records? What strategies did Kongolese actors use to articulate their interests in an interconnected world? The course aims to uncover the complex dynamics between Africa and Europe and highlight the active role of the Kingdom of Kongo in the global history of the early modern period.

Short presentations by students, discussions, written exercises and teacher-centred teaching.

Active cooperation, discussion contributions, presentation with handout or by a podcast.

To be announced in the tutorial.