Africa in International Politics
GOVT 324
Spring 2026
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01
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The continent of Africa features 54 countries and the fastest growing population on the planet. This course contextualizes the African continent in international politics, and provides an overview of the many ways (especially sub-Saharan) African states engage with foreign countries, with international institutions, and with each other, from colonial times to the present. We'll focus on integrating the African continent into theories of international relations, including African countries' roles in the international political economy and in international security. Topics include colonialism, trade, aid and structural adjustment programs, sovereign debt, international and regional organizations and blocs, security arrangements, and African states' roles in ongoing international climate governance. The focus of the course is on the foreign policy and international interactions of countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The course therefore provides a broad overview of diverse topics and countries, emphasizing breadth over close study of a particular case or topic. The assignments provide an opportunity for students to add depth to their knowledge of particular countries and contexts of their choosing. In addition to giving students the opportunity to learn more about politics in contemporary sub-Saharan Africa, the course will provide students with experience testing social scientific theories against empirical evidence, conducting original research using primary and secondary sources, and writing succinct research reports. Students will analyze both issues of academic and political importance. |
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| Credit: 1 |
Gen Ed Area Dept:
SBS GOVT |
| Course Format: Lecture / Discussion | Grading Mode: Graded |
| Level: UGRD |
Prerequisites: None |
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Fulfills a Requirement for: (Government) |
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Past Enrollment Probability: 75% - 89% |
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