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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
They Came Before Columbus summary
Ivan Van Sertima
Brief summary
They Came Before Columbus by Ivan Van Sertima challenges the traditional narrative of European exploration by presenting evidence of pre-Columbian transatlantic voyages and African presence in the Americas.
Table of Contents
They Came Before Columbus
Summary of key ideas
Exploring the African Presence in Pre-Columbian America
In They Came Before Columbus by Ivan Van Sertima, we embark on a thought-provoking journey to explore the African presence in pre-Columbian America. Van Sertima begins by challenging the conventional narrative that Christopher Columbus was the first to 'discover' the Americas. He argues that Africans had visited and settled in the New World long before Columbus set sail.
Van Sertima introduces us to the Olmec civilization, a highly advanced society that flourished in what is now Mexico around 1200 BC. He points out the striking similarities between the facial features of the colossal stone heads created by the Olmecs and those of African people, suggesting that the Olmecs may have had African origins.
Tracing the Footsteps of African Mariners
The author then delves into the maritime capabilities of ancient African civilizations, particularly the Egyptians and the Nubians. He presents evidence that these societies had the technological prowess to undertake transatlantic voyages. Van Sertima suggests that these seafaring Africans might have reached the Americas, influencing the cultures and traditions of indigenous peoples.
Van Sertima also highlights the impressive navigational skills of West African mariners, particularly the Mandingos. He argues that they possessed the knowledge and equipment to cross the Atlantic, evidenced by their detailed maps, compasses, and advanced shipbuilding techniques. He proposes that these seafarers could have established colonies along the American coastline, leaving behind cultural imprints.
Uncovering African Influences on Native American Cultures
Continuing his exploration, Van Sertima draws parallels between African and Native American societies. He points out shared cultural practices, such as pyramid construction, circumcision rituals, and the use of certain plants and agricultural techniques, as potential evidence of African influence on Native American cultures.
Moreover, Van Sertima highlights linguistic connections between African and Native American languages. He suggests that the presence of African loanwords in indigenous languages, along with shared grammatical structures, might indicate early interactions between these two groups, further supporting the notion of pre-Columbian African presence in the Americas.
Challenging Traditional Perspectives
Throughout They Came Before Columbus, Van Sertima challenges traditional historical perspectives and encourages readers to reconsider the role of Africans in shaping world history. He emphasizes the need to acknowledge and respect the contributions of all cultures, including those often marginalized or overlooked in mainstream narratives.
In conclusion, They Came Before Columbus presents a compelling argument for the African presence in pre-Columbian America, backed by a wealth of historical and anthropological evidence. Van Sertima's book invites readers to critically examine established historical narratives and consider alternative perspectives, offering a valuable contribution to our understanding of early transatlantic interactions.
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What is They Came Before Columbus about?
They Came Before Columbus by Ivan Van Sertima challenges the traditional narrative of Christopher Columbus as the discoverer of America. Through extensive research and compelling evidence, the book argues that Africans and other ancient civilizations had already established contact with the Americas long before Columbus's arrival. It sheds light on the rich and complex history of pre-Columbian transatlantic exploration and trade.
They Came Before Columbus Review
They Came Before Columbus (1976) sheds light on the pre-Columbian presence of African explorers in the Americas, a compelling narrative that challenges traditional historical narratives. Here's why this book stands out:
- Unveiling fascinating evidence of African civilizations crossing the Atlantic long before Columbus, it redefines our understanding of early transatlantic encounters.
- Offering insightful interpretations of historical findings and cultural connections, it encourages readers to reconsider established historical perspectives.
- Its exploration of overlooked narratives brings a fresh and engaging perspective to history, proving that truth can be more intriguing than fiction.
Who should read They Came Before Columbus?
Readers who are curious about the pre-Columbian history of the Americas
History enthusiasts interested in exploring alternative perspectives on early transatlantic contact
Individuals who want to gain a deeper understanding of African contributions to world civilizations
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They Came Before Columbus FAQs
What is the main message of They Came Before Columbus?
The main message of They Came Before Columbus explores pre-Columbian African presence in the Americas.
How long does it take to read They Came Before Columbus?
Reading They Came Before Columbus takes a few hours, but the Blinkist summary can be read quickly.
Is They Came Before Columbus a good book? Is it worth reading?
They Came Before Columbus is worth reading for its eye-opening insights into pre-Columbian history.
Who is the author of They Came Before Columbus?
Ivan Van Sertima is the author of They Came Before Columbus.
What to read after They Came Before Columbus?
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