Mark Simpson on Black History Studies and African Civilisations

Magazine Programme

Welcome to another episode of ALC Pan-African Radio’s magazine programme. I’m your host, Mounira Chaieb. Today, we engage in a thought-provoking discussion on African civilizations, pre-slavery history, and the critical role of education in reclaiming historical narratives. Our guest is Mark Simpson, co-founder of Black History Studies, an organisation dedicated to educating communities about African history beyond the narrow lens of enslavement.

Mark and his wife Charmaine have spent years conducting research, organising lectures, and leading cultural tours to highlight Africa’s rich history before colonisation. His recent lecture, delivered as part of Black History Month, tackled misconceptions that African history began with slavery. He argued that slavery marked a disruption, not the beginning, of Africa’s story. Citing extensive research and historical records, he debunked the notion—perpetuated even by some mainstream narratives—that African societies lacked science, governance, and civilisation before European contact.

Drawing inspiration from scholars like Dr. Yosef Ben-Jochannan, Cheikh Anta Diop, and Carter G. Woodson, Mark shared insights on great African civilisations such as Mali, Timbuktu, and the ancient kingdoms of Sudan. He highlighted how European scholars deliberately suppressed Africa’s contributions to knowledge, particularly the role of ancient African scholars in shaping early universities. His lecture also addressed the problematic portrayal of Africa as a continent in perpetual need of aid rather than a region with a history of powerful empires, intellectual traditions, and economic might.

Beyond academia, Mark is also a musician, using reggae and spoken word to spread messages of empowerment and historical awareness. He believes in the transformative power of education and urges communities to seek knowledge, challenge dominant narratives, and reclaim their heritage.

Join us as we explore the depths of Africa’s pre-colonial history, the resilience of its people, and the work being done to restore its rightful place in global consciousness.

I’d like you to stay tuned for this enlightening conversation.

Episode Outline:

Host: Mounira Chaieb
Guests: Mark Simpson

Episode Duration: 23:31 minutes
Show: Magazine Programme

1. Introduction – The Importance of Black History Studies (00:00 – 05:30)

• Host’s introduction to the episode and guest
• Mark Simpson’s background and the mission of Black History Studies
• Why Black History extends beyond slavery

2. Africa Before Enslavement – Reclaiming the Narrative (05:30 – 12:00)

• The misconception that African history begins with slavery
• How African civilizations thrived before European contact
• Examples of powerful pre-colonial African empires

3. Ancient African Civilisations and Intellectual Traditions (12:00 – 20:00)

• The intellectual contributions of Timbuktu and Mali
• The role of African scholars in shaping global knowledge
• Africa’s forgotten legacy in mathematics, medicine, and governance

4. The Deliberate Erasure of African Achievements (20:00 – 27:30)

• Colonial and Eurocentric narratives in history books
• The impact of misinformation on African identity
• Restoring Africa’s contributions to global civilisation

5. African Cultural Renaissance Through Music and Arts (27:30 – 35:00)

• Mark’s use of reggae and spoken word as an educational tool
• How music carries historical and political messages
• The role of arts in reclaiming African heritage

6. The Role of Education in Challenging Stereotypes (35:00 – 42:30)

• Why historical accuracy is key to empowerment
• Community-driven education as a tool for change
• The need for curriculum reforms in schools

7. Connecting Diaspora Africans to Their Heritage (42:30 – 50:00)

• Black History Studies’ cultural tours to Africa
• The emotional impact of reconnecting with ancestral lands
• Lessons learned from engaging with local historians

8. Addressing Africa’s Misrepresentation in Global Media (50:00 – 57:30)

• How media distorts Africa’s image
• The power of storytelling in reshaping narratives
• The responsibility of African voices in global discourse

9. Call to Action – Encouraging Self-Education and Advocacy (57:30 – 01:03:00)

• Practical steps for individuals to educate themselves
• How to support Black History Studies’ work
• Final words of encouragement from Mark Simpson

10. Closing Remarks and Takeaways (01:03:00 – End)

• Key reflections on Africa’s history and identity
• Host’s final thoughts and appreciation to Mark Simpson
• Invitation for listeners to explore more on the topic

Download the full transcript here