Before any European made contact with Africa, Christianity was born on the continent. In fact, Christianity was an integral part of several ancient African nations, particularly kingdoms in the Nile River Valley.
It was when European missionaries came by the legions, however, that the religion was used as a tool of destruction.
Europeans began their descent into Sub-Saharan Africa towards the late 15th century, and for centuries thereafter, colonists ravaged the land and enslaved the people. But in their eyes it was OK. Why?
Because, by the 19th century, many justified their actions through the Bible. Missionaries claimed to be on a crusade to “save” and “civilize” African people by spreading God’s word. Christianity and colonialism had intertwined in a twisted and disturbing way.
The bottom line is this: they used Christianity to uphold white supremacy and to justify conquering the people and stealing their land – acts of colonialism that systematically destroyed and decimated entire economies and societies.
In doing so, they covetously stole and distorted a religion that began with African peoples.
This is only a single layer to a deeper history. To learn more, tune in for a “God Talk” on Black History Year’s recent episode. Dr. Anthony Browder opens the floodgates to the African origins of Christianity and explores how spirituality and liberation connect.
You can stream Black History Year anywhere you find podcasts. It’s time to set the record straight!