What Africa and black people have contributed to the world

Africa and black people have made countless contributions to the world in a variety of fields, including art, science, literature, music, and more. Here are a few examples of these contributions:

1. Art: African art has a long and rich history, and is known for its vibrant colors, intricate designs, and use of materials such as wood, ivory, and textiles. African art has also influenced many other art movements around the world, including the Harlem Renaissance in the United States.
2. Science: African scientists and inventors have made important contributions to fields such as mathematics, astronomy, and medicine. For example, the ancient Egyptians were known for their knowledge of mathematics and medicine, and the mathematician Ahmes is credited with writing one of the earliest mathematical texts, the Rhind Mathematical Papyrus.
   
3. Literature: African writers have made important contributions to world literature, including authors such as Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o. These writers have used their work to explore the themes of identity, history, and cultural traditions, and have made a significant impact on the literary world.
4. Music: African music has had a profound influence on many different musical traditions around the world, including jazz, blues, and hip-hop. African rhythms and instruments, such as the drum, have been incorporated into a wide range of musical styles, and African musicians continue to make important contributions to the world of music.
5. Athletics: African athletes have made significant contributions to the world of sports, including long-distance runners and sprinters. Many African athletes have won Olympic medals and set world records, and have inspired others to pursue athletic careers.

These are just a few examples of the many contributions that Africa and black people have made to the world. From the arts to science and technology, Africa and black people have left an indelible mark on the world, and their contributions continue to shape and enrich our lives today.

Africa has been at the forefront of innovation, invention, and advancement for centuries. Black people, too, have shaped the world through the contributions they have made in various fields. From art to science, music to literature, black people have left an indelible mark on the world. Despite this, the contributions of Africa and black people to the world’s progress are often underrated, overlooked, or entirely disregarded. It is crucial to recognize and appreciate the contributions made by them, not only out of respect and recognition but also to inspire future generations of black people. This blog post aims to shed light on the many contributions made by Africa and black people throughout history. It is essential to note that this list is not exhaustive, but rather a testament to the rich cultural heritage and diversity within Africa and the black community worldwide. By shining a light on these contributions, we can challenge the commonly held misconceptions about the history and identity of Africa and black people.

1. Creation of The African Union

The creation of the African Union, formerly known as the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1963, was a significant milestone for Africa and black people around the world. It was formed with the goal of promoting unity, solidarity, and cooperation among African countries, and to end colonialism and apartheid in Africa. The organization has since evolved and expanded to become the African Union, with 55 member states working to promote political and economic integration, peace, and development on the continent. The African Union has also played a critical role in advocating for African concerns on the global stage and providing a platform for African leaders to work towards common goals. The creation of the African Union is a testament to the resilience and determination of African peoples to chart their own path towards development and progress.

2. Invention of the 3-field system

The invention of the 3-field system is an outstanding contribution from Africa and black people to the world. This innovation, pioneered by the medieval African farmers, is a technique for cultivating fields, where they divided crops into three sections, instead of the traditional two-field system. The 3-field system utilizes crop rotation, whereby each section would be used for different crops in a pattern that allows the exhausted soil to rejuvenate. This ground-breaking technique led to increased crop production, higher yields, and the ability to grow crops in a more organized, planned, and efficient way. Its widespread adoption in the medieval era impacted farming practices worldwide and helped improve food and resource sustainability. The invention of the 3-field system highlights the ingenuity and resourcefulness of African and black people throughout history, and their contribution to shaping the world we live in today.

3. Development of the solar calendar

The development of the solar calendar is one of the notable contributions that Africa and black people have made to the world. The solar calendar is a system for measuring time using the sun’s position, and it has been widely adopted around the world. Many early cultures used lunar calendars, which were based on the phases of the moon, but the Egyptians and other African civilizations realized that a solar calendar, based on the annual rotation of the Earth around the sun, was more accurate. The Egyptian solar calendar was one of the earliest, and it formed the basis for other solar calendars that followed, including the Julian calendar used by the Romans and the Gregorian calendar that is widely used today. This development by African civilizations underscores the contribution of Africa and black people to the world’s understanding of time and astronomy.

4. Pioneering of new medical treatments

The pioneering of new medical treatments is one of the most significant contributions that Africa and black people have made to the world. Black physicians and researchers have been breaking new ground in the development of medical treatments for decades. From the heart pacemaker invented by Dr. Wilson Greatbatch, to the discovery of the structure of vitamin C by Dr. Albert Szent-Györgyi and Dr. Charles Glen King, black innovators in medicine have saved countless lives with their groundbreaking contributions. In modern times, the continent of Africa has been the center of attention in the fight against the Ebola virus, which has led to the development of new treatments and vaccines. This passion for medical science and the search for new treatments is a shining example of Africa and black people’s contribution to the betterment of humanity.

5. Advances in mathematics and science

The contributions of Africa and black people to the world, particularly in the fields of mathematics and science, cannot be overstated. It is widely accepted that humanity’s earliest advances in mathematics and astronomy were made in Africa, as evidenced by the intricate design and accuracy of ancient Egyptian architectural marvels such as the Great Pyramid of Giza. Additionally, modern scientific advancements in fields such as medicine and genetics are indebted to the work of numerous black scientists, including names such as Charles Drew, George Washington Carver, and Mae Jemison. The contributions of these pioneers have greatly enriched the world’s scientific knowledge and have paved the way for future discoveries and innovations.

6. Reintroduction of the spoken word

The reintroduction of the spoken word is a significant contribution made by Africa and black people to the world. It is a form of artistic expression originating from Africa that has been utilized in various cultural and societal contexts throughout history. Spoken word is an art form that blends poetry, storytelling, and performance, and it has been used to address social, political, and cultural issues. This art form is celebrated for its unique style that incorporates rhythm, rhyme, repetition, and wordplay. The reintroduction of spoken word has had a profound impact on modern-day poetry, music, and literature, and it continues to inspire artists worldwide. This contribution serves as a testament to the richness and diversity of Africa and black people’s culture, and it contributes to the world’s artistic and literary heritage.

7. Creation of new musical genres

Africa and its people have contributed countless valuable legacies to the world in various fields, including music. One of the most notable contributions is the creation of new musical genres. African cultures have a rich tradition of diverse musical styles, with unique rhythms, melodies, and harmonies. These rich musical traditions have influenced countless genres around the world. For example, blues, jazz, funk, and rock and roll all have roots in African rhythms and melodies. The rise of African musical genres such as Afrobeat and Highlife has also influenced contemporary Western genres such as hip hop and electronic dance music. The evolution and proliferation of new musical genres are a testament to African creativity and innovation.

8. Pioneering of democratic government systems

One of the most important contributions of Africa and black people to the world is the pioneering of democratic government systems. Many of the world’s oldest and most successful democracies owe their roots to African societies, including those found in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. The concept of representative governance, where elected officials speak and act on behalf of a larger population, has been practiced in African societies for centuries. This tradition continues today as various African nations seek to build and strengthen their democratic institutions and processes. The continent has been home to a number of successful democratic elections in recent years, serving as a model for other nations and helping to promote global ideals of fairness, justice, and equality. The pioneering of democratic government systems by Africa and black people stands as one of the great contributions to humanity.

9. Contributions to fashion and art

Africa and black people have made significant contributions to fashion and art over the years. Africa’s vibrant and diverse fashion industry has been a source of inspiration for designers all over the world. Africa’s diverse cultures have contributed to the rich and colorful fabric designs of Kente, Ankara, and Dashiki, which have all gained widespread popularity in fashion circles. Black artists such as Jean-Michel Basquiat and Kara Walker have also had a profound impact on the art world. Basquiat’s raw expressionism and incorporation of African masks and symbols in his works helped put African and black art at the forefront of contemporary art in the 1980s. Kara Walker’s exploration of race, identity, and representation through her powerful silhouette installations has also made her one of the most important artists of our time. These and many other contributions to fashion and art demonstrate the immense talent and creativity of Africa and black people, and their continued influence on cultural expression across the world.

10. Pioneering of new trade routes

One notable contribution of Africa and black people to the world is the pioneering of new trade routes. Historically, African civilizations engaged in trade with each other and neighboring regions, exchanging goods such as gold, salt, ivory, and spices. In fact, some historians believe that the early economic growth of Europe was aided by the trans-Saharan trade networks established by West African merchants, which brought valuable resources to the continent. In addition, many black explorers and traders, such as Mansa Musa and Ibn Battuta, played influential roles in opening up new trade routes throughout Africa and the Middle East. Today, this legacy continues through the continued growth and expansion of African economies and the rise of African-led trade organizations such as the African Continental Free Trade Area.

In conclusion, the contributions of Africa and black people to the world are vast and have significantly impacted our modern society. From mathematics and science to the arts and literature, they have made remarkable achievements that continue to influence and inspire people across generations and cultures. It is essential to acknowledge and appreciate these contributions to recognize the exceptional ability, resilience, and creativity of people of the African diaspora. We can all learn from and celebrate the remarkable achievements and contributions of Africa and black people to the world.