Redefining a Narrative: A Nuanced Understanding of the Effects of Colonialism on Religion in West Africa

Historically, Africa has been seen as the most ethnically and religiously diverse continent on Earth. With hundreds of unique and culturally significant religions predating the advent of colonial rule, many blame Europeans for the degradation of such longstanding traditions. In fact, the common narrative in the West, especially in higher education, asserts that Christian and Muslim conquerors burned their way through the continent, planting the seeds of their own religious traditions in their path. The image of forced conversions and persecution of traditional faiths may come to mind for many. While this narrative may have been the case in a multitude of situations, a deeper look into the history of religious trends in West Africa reveals more complexities to the process than overbearing domination alone. Through the analysis of case studies and firsthand accounts of traditional practitioners, listeners will come to understand the breadth of cultural shifts and power dynamics that enabled West Africa to become a majority Christian and Islamic region.