African Economic History: Gold, Diamonds, and Social Transformation in Southern Africa, 1900-1990

About this course

The course follows the development of gold and diamond mining in Southern Africa, from mineral discoveries and industrial expansion to the labour systems, racial control and urban growth associated with the mining economy. It considers resistance, strikes, apartheid and the region’s connections to the world economy, alongside the effects of extraction on African communities. Short lectures provide historical context, while discussions and collaborative analysis of maps, photographs, diary entries and historical writing introduce different ways of interpreting primary and secondary evidence.

What you'll learn

• Explain the development of gold and diamond mining industries in Southern Africa between 1900 and 1990
• Analyse how mining shaped migrant labour and other racialised labour systems
• Assess the connections between mineral wealth, industrialisation and urban growth
• Evaluate the role of mining capital in the development of segregation and apartheid
• Analyse the social and economic effects of extractive industries on African communities
• Interpret historical evidence and engage with debates in African economic history

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for complete beginners and people curious about African economic history. Its teaching combines short lectures with discussion and collaborative source analysis, so participation includes working with others to examine historical materials and consider different perspectives.

• Suitable for learners approaching the topic without previous study
• Includes group-based discussion and collaborative analysis of sources
• Uses varied historical materials, including maps, photographs, diary entries and extracts from historical writing

Before you go

• No additional costs are stated.
• A pen and paper may be brought for note-taking.