African Presence in Early Europe by Ivan Van Sertima
“African Presence in Early Europe,” edited by Ivan Van Sertima, is a groundbreaking anthology that documents the roles and experiences of Africans in Europe from ancient times through the early modern era. Bringing together essays by historians, classicists, and archaeologists, the book challenges Eurocentric narratives by highlighting evidence of African individuals and communities in European societies long before the transatlantic slave trade.
The volume explores themes such as Africans in Greek and Roman history, African emperors and soldiers in the Roman Empire, the Moorish presence in Iberia, and African influence in European art, religion, science, and philosophy. Using historical texts, artwork, archaeological findings, and linguistic clues, it argues that Africans contributed significantly to Europe’s cultural and intellectual development, even though these contributions have often been minimized or erased.
Curated through the Journal of African Civilizations, “African Presence in Early Europe” is designed both for general readers and students seeking a more accurate and inclusive picture of world history. It is an essential resource for anyone interested in Africana studies, world civilizations, and the recovery of suppressed histories, making it a compelling addition to personal and educational libraries alike.
