'They Came Before Columbus: The African Presence in Ancient America (Journal of African Civilizations)' book reviews
"They Came Before Columbus: The African Presence in Ancient America" by Dr. Ivan Van Sertima is a groundbreaking work that challenges conventional historical narratives and offers a provocative re-examination of pre-Columbian history. First published in 1976, the book has since become a seminal text in the field of African and Indigenous studies, sparking both praise and controversy for its bold assertions and meticulous research.
Dr. Van Sertima, a Guyanese-born literary critic, linguist, and anthropologist, meticulously compiles evidence from a variety of disciplines, including archaeology, anthropology, linguistics, and botany, to support his thesis that African explorers reached the Americas long before Christopher Columbus. Far from being a speculative or fringe theory, Van Sertima's arguments are buttressed by a wealth of empirical data, including ancient maps, artifacts, and accounts from early European explorers and historians.
One of the most compelling aspects of the book is its interdisciplinary approach. Van Sertima delves into the ancient records of Egyptian, Nubian, and West African civilizations, showing how their maritime capabilities, navigational knowledge, and cultural artifacts suggest contact with the Americas. He discusses the presence of African-derived plants like cotton and yams in pre-Columbian America and provides linguistic evidence of African influence on Native American languages. This holistic approach not only enriches the narrative but also lends credibility to his hypotheses.
Equally fascinating is Van Sertima's discussion of the Olmec civilization, one of the earliest known Mesoamerican cultures. He highlights the striking similarities between Olmec artifacts and African art, particularly the colossal stone heads with distinctly African features. While some critics argue that these similarities are coincidental or have alternative explanations, Van Sertima's detailed analysis makes a compelling case for cultural exchange.
However, "They Came Before Columbus" is not without its detractors. Some scholars criticize Van Sertima for what they perceive as over-reliance on circumstantial evidence and for occasionally stretching interpretations to fit his thesis. Despite these criticisms, it is essential to recognize that groundbreaking theories often face initial skepticism. Van Sertima's work has opened up new avenues of inquiry and has inspired subsequent research that continues to explore the complexities of pre-Columbian trans-oceanic contact.
In addition to its scholarly merits, the book has profound cultural and political implications. By highlighting the contributions of African civilizations to global history, Van Sertima challenges Eurocentric narratives that have long marginalized non-European peoples. His work serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of human history and the importance of acknowledging diverse perspectives.
Overall, "They Came Before Columbus" is a thought-provoking and meticulously researched book that invites readers to reconsider established historical narratives. Whether one agrees with all of Van Sertima’s conclusions or not, the book undeniably enriches our understanding of the ancient world and the complex tapestry of human civilization. It is a must-read for anyone interested in history, anthropology, and the enduring question of cultural exchange across continents.
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