Africana Studies

The History Department of Bowling Green State University offers a three & a half-week summer seminar in the Republic of Benin. Offered in cooperation with the National University of the Republic of Benin, this seminar is open to undergraduate and graduate students. Interested individuals who are not students at BGSU are also invited to participate in the seminar as well. During this study abroad, BGSU professors will travel with the group and participate in all scheduled activities and field trips.
 

Course Objective

Study Benin's multicultural history and creative arts for academic/vocational enrichment and particularly as background for Africana Studies in the U.S. The cultural unity of West Africa, the Atlantic slave trade, the continuity of African culture among Blacks in the Americas, and the history of ethnic diversity within Benin Republic comprise the thematic foci of the seminar. Based in the Francophone city of Cotonou, this seminar provides opportunities for conversations in French; however, lectures, discussions, and field trips are conducted in English. Bowling Green State University and National University of Benin professors provide lectures and participate in field trips.

I. The Experience

Experience "Africa" while studying history, culture, art and conducting research designed to fit individual majors and interests. Learn while enjoying Benin's palm tree-laden beaches and gleaming crystalline sands! Reflect on your experiences while walking daily along the shore, thinking about friendly Beninese from diverse ethnic groups, scrumptious local fruits, French pastries, flaky meat pies--and wonder of all wonders--soul food at Maman Benin's and around the city! Sing at Crystal Palace Karaoke and swing at the So What Jazz Club or at New York/ New York.

Ganvie

III. The Exploration

Participants of this seminar will be accompanied on field trips aimed at heightening visual interpretations or connections of course readings and discussions to the "real life" culture of Benin.

The seminar's field trips include:

Ganvie

Cultural Events

Northern Benin

International Dantokpa Market

Gahou Koffi Workshop

Abomey Museum/Arts Center

Songhai [Ecological] Center

Creddesa [Holistic Health]

Muslim & Traditional Sites in

Archaeological Sites in Togo

Ghana (Tentative / Extra)

African Christian Churches

Traditional Temple Sites & Compounds

Ouidah: Slave Trade Route /"Door of No Return"

Graduate: (6 Credit Hours)

HIST 586: Beninese History, Culture, and Art -

4 Hrs.

HIST 587: Africanisms in African/American Culture - 2 Hrs.