Course Outline: Decolonization in the Haile Selassie I & African Unity Perspective
Course Description
This course explores decolonization through the political vision, speeches, and actions of Emperor Haile Selassie I, with a special focus on African unity, dignity, sovereignty, and moral order. It situates decolonization not merely as the end of foreign rule, but as a spiritual, cultural, economic, and intellectual liberation process aligned with Pan-African consciousness. Students will examine Africa’s historical trauma, resistance, and reconstruction through the lens of African unity, self-determination, and collective responsibility.
The course integrates history, political thought, Rastafari interpretations, and contemporary African and diasporic realities.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Understand decolonization as a multidimensional process (political, cultural, economic, mental)
- Analyze Haile Selassie I’s role in Pan-Africanism and African unity
- Interpret key speeches and policies of Haile Selassie I
- Critically assess colonial legacies and neocolonial structures
- Articulate African-centered solutions rooted in unity, justice, and moral governance
- Apply African unity principles to contemporary global challenges
Course Structure
Duration: 10–12 weeks
Format: Lectures, readings, discussions, case studies, reflections
Assessment: Essays, presentations, participation, final project
