Black Radicals

Introduction

Kwame Nkrumah stands as one of the most significant figures in the history of African independence and Pan-Africanism. His life and political career encapsulate the struggles and aspirations of a continent striving to free itself from the shackles of colonialism.

Nkrumah’s vision extended beyond the borders of Ghana, the country he led to independence in 1957; he envisaged a united Africa that could stand on its own in the global arena. This essay will explore Nkrumah’s early life, his rise to political prominence, his contributions to Ghana’s independence, his Pan-Africanist ideology, and his enduring legacy.

Early Life and Education

Kwame Nkrumah was born on September 21, 1909, in Nkroful, a small village in the British colony of the Gold Coast, now Ghana. He was born into a modest family, but his mother, Nyanibah, played a crucial role in nurturing his early intellectual development. Recognizing his potential, his family ensured that Nkrumah received a good education, a rarity for many in the colony at the time.

Nkrumah attended Achimota School in Accra, where he excelled academically and became deeply interested in the nationalist ideas that were beginning to circulate among the educated elite in the Gold Coast. His teachers, recognizing his talent, encouraged him to pursue higher education abroad. In 1935, Nkrumah traveled to the United States, where he enrolled at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. It was in the U.S. that Nkrumah’s political consciousness was fully awakened.

Political Awakening in the United States

During his time in the United States, Nkrumah immersed himself in the study of political philosophy, sociology, and economics. He was deeply influenced by the writings of Karl Marx, Vladimir Lenin, and Marcus Garvey, the Jamaican-born leader of the Pan-African movement. Garvey’s ideas about African unity and self-reliance resonated strongly with Nkrumah, who began to envision a similar movement for the African continent.

Nkrumah also became involved in the African American civil rights movement, forming connections with prominent leaders such as W.E.B. Du Bois and George Padmore. These relationships further shaped his understanding of the global struggle against racism, colonialism, and imperialism. During this period, Nkrumah developed his ideas about the interconnectedness of the African diaspora and the need for a united front against oppression.

Return to Africa and the Struggle for Independence

In 1947, Nkrumah returned to the Gold Coast, where he was invited to join the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC), a political organization advocating for self-government. However, Nkrumah quickly became frustrated with the UGCC’s gradualist approach and its focus on elite interests. In 1949, he broke away from the UGCC to form the Convention People’s Party (CPP), a mass-based party that called for immediate independence and mobilized the broader population, including workers, farmers, and the urban poor.

Nkrumah’s slogan, “Self-Government Now,” electrified the masses and led to widespread protests and strikes. The colonial authorities responded by arresting Nkrumah and other CPP leaders, but this only served to increase his popularity. In 1951, while still in prison, Nkrumah’s CPP won a decisive victory in the Gold Coast’s first general election. The colonial government was forced to release him, and Nkrumah became the leader of government business, effectively the prime minister of the colony.

Ghana’s Independence and Nkrumah’s Vision

On March 6, 1957, the Gold Coast officially gained its independence, becoming the nation of Ghana, with Nkrumah as its first prime minister and later its president. Ghana’s independence was a watershed moment in African history, marking the first time a sub-Saharan African country had successfully thrown off the yoke of colonialism. Nkrumah declared, “The independence of Ghana is meaningless unless it is linked up with the total liberation of Africa,” signaling his broader vision for the continent.

Nkrumah’s vision for Ghana was one of rapid modernization and industrialization. He embarked on an ambitious program of infrastructure development, building roads, schools, hospitals, and the Akosombo Dam, which provided hydroelectric power. Nkrumah also sought to diversify Ghana’s economy, reducing its reliance on cocoa exports by investing in manufacturing and other industries.

However, these efforts were not without challenges. Nkrumah’s focus on rapid development led to significant borrowing, which burdened the country with debt. Additionally, his government’s increasing centralization of power and suppression of political opposition alienated many of his former allies and created internal dissent.

Pan-Africanism and Continental Unity

While Nkrumah worked tirelessly to develop Ghana, his ultimate goal was the political and economic unity of Africa. He was a leading proponent of Pan-Africanism, believing that the only way for Africa to achieve true independence and prosperity was through unity. Nkrumah argued that the artificial borders created by colonial powers divided African peoples and weakened their ability to resist external exploitation.

In 1963, Nkrumah played a pivotal role in the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), the precursor to the African Union. The OAU aimed to promote solidarity among African states, support liberation movements, and coordinate economic development. However, Nkrumah’s vision of a United States of Africa, with a single government and economy, faced resistance from other African leaders who were wary of ceding national sovereignty.

Despite these challenges, Nkrumah continued to advocate for African unity. He believed that Africa’s future depended on its ability to transcend colonial legacies and build a continent-wide federation that could compete on the global stage. His writings, particularly “Africa Must Unite” (1963) and “Neo-Colonialism: The Last Stage of Imperialism” (1965), laid out his vision for a unified, socialist Africa that could resist neocolonial pressures from the West.

Downfall and Exile

Nkrumah’s bold vision and uncompromising leadership style made him both a revered figure and a controversial one. His government’s increasingly authoritarian tendencies, including the passage of the Preventive Detention Act, which allowed for the imprisonment of political opponents without trial, fueled growing domestic opposition.

Additionally, Ghana’s economic difficulties, exacerbated by falling cocoa prices and mounting debt, further eroded his support.

In February 1966, while Nkrumah was on a state visit to North Vietnam and China, his government was overthrown in a military coup. The coup was orchestrated by elements within the Ghanaian military and police, with the alleged support of Western intelligence agencies, who viewed Nkrumah’s socialist policies and alignment with the Soviet Union as a threat to their interests in Africa.

Nkrumah never returned to Ghana, spending the remainder of his life in exile in Guinea, where he was given the honorary title of co-president by President Ahmed Sékou Touré. Despite his exile, Nkrumah continued to write and advocate for African unity until his death. His death was on April 27, 1972, in Bucharest, Romania, where he had been receiving medical treatment.

Legacy and Impact

Kwame Nkrumah’s legacy is complex and multifaceted. He is celebrated as a pioneering leader who not only led Ghana to independence but also inspired a generation of African leaders and freedom fighters. His vision of Pan-Africanism and African unity continues to resonate, even if his dream of a United States of Africa remains unfulfilled.

Nkrumah’s ideas have had a lasting impact on African political thought. The concept of African unity, which he championed, remains a guiding principle for the African Union. And his critiques of neocolonialism continue to inform debates about Africa’s place in the global economy. Nkrumah’s emphasis on self-reliance and his belief in the potential of African people to chart their own destiny continue to inspire movements for economic and social justice across the continent.

However, Nkrumah’s legacy is also marked by the challenges and “contradictions” of his rule. His efforts to rapidly transform Ghana’s economy and society were met with significant resistance and ultimately contributed to his downfall. His government’s authoritarian practices and suppression of dissent have been criticized as undermining the very democratic principles he initially espoused.

Conclusion

Kwame Nkrumah remains a towering figure in the history of Africa’s liberation. His life and work embody the aspirations of a continent seeking to reclaim its independence and chart its own course in the world. Nkrumah’s vision of a united, prosperous Africa continues to inspire. Even as the challenges he faced remind us of the complexities of leadership and the difficulties of achieving lasting change.

As Africa continues to grapple with the legacies of colonialism and the demands of the modern world, Nkrumah’s ideas and example offer both a source of inspiration and a cautionary tale.

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Thank you for being here; stay black, get radical!

#blackradicals

 

The term “Black Radicals” has historically referred to individuals and movements within the African and African Diaspora communities who advocate for significant, often revolutionary, social, political, and economic change. These individuals and movements often seek to challenge and dismantle systems of oppression, including racism, colonialism, capitalism, and imperialism, that have historically marginalized “Black people.”

Key Elements of Black Radicalism:

1. Anti-Colonialism and Anti-Imperialism: Black Radicals often emphasize the importance of dismantling colonial and imperial structures that exploit and oppress Black people worldwide. This perspective was particularly strong during the mid-20th century, with figures like Kwame Nkrumah of Ghana and Patrice Lumumba of Congo leading independence movements.
2. Rejection of Assimilation: Unlike more moderate civil rights movements that may seek inclusion within existing societal structures, Black Radicals often reject the idea of assimilation into systems they view as fundamentally corrupt. Instead, they advocate for creating alternative systems that reflect the values and needs of Black communities.
3. Pan-Africanism: Many Black Radicals embrace Pan-Africanism, the idea that all people of African descent, whether on the continent or in the diaspora, share a common identity and destiny. Pan-Africanism has inspired movements for unity among African nations and solidarity among Black people worldwide.
4. Black Power and Self-Determination: The Black Power movement of the 1960s and 1970s in the United States is a quintessential example of Black Radicalism. It emphasized racial pride, self-sufficiency, and the need for Black people to control their own communities and destinies. Key figures include Malcolm X, Stokely Carmichael, and the Black Panther Party.
5. Economic Justice and Redistribution: Black Radicals often advocate for economic justice, which includes the redistribution of wealth, land, and resources to address historical injustices. This can take the form of reparations, land reform, and the nationalization of industries.
6. Intersectionality: While some early Black Radical movements were primarily focused on issues of race, many contemporary Black Radicals incorporate intersectional analysis, recognizing the ways in which race, class, gender, sexuality, and other forms of identity intersect and compound experiences of oppression.

Notable Figures and Movements:

• Frantz Fanon: A philosopher and revolutionary from Martinique who wrote extensively on the psychological and cultural impacts of colonialism and the need for decolonization.
• Angela Davis: A scholar, activist, and former member of the Black Panther Party, Davis has been a vocal advocate for prison abolition, women’s rights, and anti-capitalism.
• Marcus Garvey: A Jamaican political leader and activist, Garvey founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) and promoted the idea of Black self-reliance and the return to Africa.
• Assata Shakur: A former member of the Black Liberation Army, Shakur was a prominent figure in the Black Radical movement and remains a symbol of resistance.
• Assimi Goita: Malian military officer who gained prominence through his involvement in two military coups in Mali. Here’s a brief overview of Assimi Goïta, with a focus on his perspectives on change, his politics, controversy, and the direction he was taking at that time.

Impact and Legacy:

Black Radicalism has had a profound impact on global movements for justice and equality. It has inspired generations of activists and continues to influence contemporary movements such as Black Lives Matter, which draws on the legacy of Black Radicalism in its fight against systemic racism and police violence.

The ideas and actions of Black Radicals have also shaped academic disciplines like Black Studies, African Studies, and Critical Race Theory, providing a framework for analyzing and challenging the structures of oppression that continue to affect Black people worldwide.

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Thank you for being here; stay black, get radical!

#blackradicals

 

With the fast turning world of geopolitics, economics, and national infrastructures, it appears a great time for Black Radicals to reemerge with amazing or not so amazing #blackradicals.

Today we have Assimi Goïta, who is a Malian military officer who gained prominence through his involvement in two military coups in Mali. Here’s a brief overview of Assimi Goïta, with a focus on his perspectives on change, his politics, controversy, and the direction he was taking at that time. Please note that there may have been significant developments since then, and I recommend checking the latest news for updates on his role and activities.

Background:

Assimi Goïta is a Colonel in the Malian military. He first came to international attention in August 2020 when he led a group of military officers to overthrow President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta. This coup followed months of protests in Mali against alleged government corruption and mismanagement.

Perspectives on Change:

Goïta portrayed himself as a champion of change and reform during the 2020 coup. He argued that the Malian government, under President Keïta, had failed to address the country’s pressing issues, including corruption, economic challenges, and insecurity. His message was that the coup was necessary to bring about positive change and address the grievances of the Malian people. However, some critics saw the military takeover as undermining democratic processes.

Politics:

Goïta’s political ideology was not well-documented, but his actions suggested a willingness to use military force to achieve political change. His coup in August 2020 led to the dissolution of Mali’s parliament and the establishment of a military junta, the National Committee for the Salvation of the People (CNSP), with Goïta as its leader. The CNSP pledged to transition the country back to civilian rule but retained significant power in the interim.

Controversy:

Goïta’s actions were highly controversial both domestically and internationally. The coup was widely condemned by the international community, including regional organizations like the African Union and ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States). These organizations imposed sanctions on Mali in response to the coup, calling for a swift return to civilian rule.

Direction (as of September 2021):

By the time of my last knowledge update, Assimi Goïta had assumed the position of Vice President of the transitional government in Mali. The transitional government was tasked with organizing elections and returning the country to civilian rule. However, there were concerns about the military’s continued influence and whether they would genuinely relinquish power.

It’s worth noting that Mali had experienced several political and security crises in the years leading up to Goïta’s prominence, including a rebellion in the north, the presence of extremist groups, and political instability. These challenges framed the context in which Goïta and the military justified their interventions as necessary to address Mali’s complex problems.

Please keep in mind that political situations can evolve rapidly.

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With the events going on in Africa with governments being suspended, presidents detained, and embassy’s, particularly French Embassys being shutdown, we felt the need to make a resurgence of this very website, BlackRadicals.com

Refresher.

“Black radicals” typically refers to individuals or groups who advocate for radical political and social change within the context of Black liberation and civil rights. These individuals or groups often seek to address systemic racism, inequality, and oppression faced by Black people. It’s important to note that the term “radical” can encompass a wide range of beliefs and actions, and not all Black radicals share the same ideologies or methods. Here are some key points to consider:

Diversity

Diverse Perspectives: Black radicals come from diverse backgrounds and hold a wide range of political and ideological beliefs. Some may advocate for revolutionary change, while others may focus on reformist approaches within existing systems.

Historical Context: The concept of Black radicalism has deep historical roots in the United States and other countries with Black populations. Figures like Malcolm X, Huey P. Newton, and Angela Davis are often cited as prominent Black radicals who played significant roles in advocating for change during the Civil Rights Movement and the Black Power Movement.

Political Activism: Black radicals are often involved in various forms of political activism, including protests, civil disobedience, and grassroots organizing. They may address issues such as police brutality, economic inequality, education disparities, and more.

Critique of Existing Systems: Many Black radicals critique existing political and economic systems as inherently racist and argue that fundamental structural changes are needed to achieve true equality and justice.

Crossings and Intersections

Intersectionality: Black radicalism often intersects with other social justice movements, such as feminism, LGBTQ+ rights, and anti-imperialism. This intersectionality recognizes that issues of race, class, gender, and sexuality are interconnected.

Controversy and Debates: The term “Black radicals” can be controversial and is subject to different interpretations. Some people view them as necessary voices for change, while others may see them as too extreme or confrontational. Debates about the effectiveness and ethics of radical tactics are ongoing.

Evolution of Ideologies: Black radicalism has evolved over time, adapting to changing political, social, and cultural contexts. Contemporary Black activists and organizations continue to push for change using a variety of strategies and tactics.

It’s important to approach discussions about Black radicals with an understanding of the diversity of perspectives and strategies within the movement, as well as the historical and contemporary context in which they operate. Additionally, individuals and groups labeled as “Black radicals” may not always use that term to describe themselves, and self-identification and terminology can vary widely.

Dawadi Davis

BlackRadicalWriter

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*BlackRadicals.com actually follow the tenets of peace, love, and happiness, as well as the remaining nine jewels found in the catalogues of the 5-Percenters. In full they are:

1. Knowledge
2. Wisdom
3. Understanding
4. Freedom
5. Justice
6. Equality
7. Food
8. Clothing
9. Shelter

We live by the 9 fruits of the spirit; they are in full here:

1. Love
2. Joy
3. Peace
4. Patience (longsuffering)
5. Gentleness
6. Goodness
7. Faithfulness
8. Meekness (humility)
9. Self-Control (temperance)

And we live by the commandments, the Anointed Son taught while on the earth. They are mainly:

Some of the teachings and commandments given by the Anointed Son in the Sermon on the Mount include:

The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12): These describe qualities and attitudes that are endowed by the Creator, such as meekness, peacemaking, and hunger for righteousness.
The commandment against murder and anger (Matthew 5:21-22).
The commandment against adultery and lust (Matthew 5:27-28).
The teaching on divorce (Matthew 5:31-32).
The commandment to love your enemies (Matthew 5:43-48).
The teaching on prayer, including the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:5-15).
The commandment not to store up treasures on earth (Matthew 6:19-21).
The commandment not to worry (Matthew 6:25-34).
And the commandment not to judge others (Matthew 7:1-5).
The Golden Rule (Matthew 7:12), which is similar to the commandment to love your neighbor as yourself.

We do not advocate violence except in cases of defending oneself or one’s family.

In this reasoning, Dr. Umar Johnson describes how China has taken control of Jamaica and other African countries without the use of its military.

This video comes from the Youtube channel, I Never Knew Tv and the ineverknewtv.com website. Support them and learn things you never knew. Blessings.